The Clow Cards have been unleash! It will take some brave, and reckless, fillies to gather them all before they bring wanton destruction to Equestria
A My Little Pony: Nakama is Magic story
Wind, Rain, Shadow, Wood, Sword, Thunder, Power, Sleep Cardcaptors of the Clow, expect the unexpected now!
The secrets of the Clow were all a mystery But when this mighty book was opened, the powers were set free...
Cutie Mark Crusaders! A mystic adventure! Cardcaptors! A quest for all time!
Each card posses a power all its own, they'll have to find them to bring the power home~!
While the Mane Six play pirate, back in Ponyville, the Cutie Mark Crusaders continue their quest to find their cutie marks. Along the way, they make new friends who may just hold all the "cards" to their future and success. Can the CMC and their friends Sakura, Kero, and Tomoya find the Clow Cards before it's too late?
Ponyville: a small town just outside the royal city of the Kingdom of Equestria, Canterlot. It is now nighttime for this part of the world, and many ponies were now in their homes settling in. Most did not notice how windy it was outside, almost unusually so. Most simply took it as some Pegasus practicing with the weather at night.
Barely anyone noticed the enormous glowing bird flying in the sky. It looked nearly as big as half the town. It let out a mighty caw while flapping its vast wings. The winds managed to rattle many signs and pick up some leaves but remained unnoticed still.
Fortunately, not completely.
Just like the bird, no pony saw a group of fillies speeding quickly after it. An orange Pegasus with a purple mane pulled a wagon on a scooter by flapping her tiny wings rapidly. There were three other fillies in the cart she was drawing: two unicorns and one Earth pony. The first unicorn had a white-gray coat with a light purple and pink mane, and the second was a pink pony with brown hair. Lastly, the final little pony had a white coat with a dark royal blue mane, but she also had a cutie mark; it was a blue octagonal-square topaz gem. Neither of the other three fillies had one of their own. She was also holding up a strange-looking snail that appeared intently focused on what was ahead of it as directed by the filly. Next to her, there was a creature flying and keeping pace with the group. It looked like a small lion plushie with white wings.
Said creature shouted, “You sure Apple Bloom will be ready in time?!”
“Yeah!” shouted the white unicorn confidently. “She’s really good with this kind of stuff.”
Then, the Pegasus shouted at the group. “Hey! The Fly bird is changing direction!” She also pointed towards the bird, showing that the magic being was shifting direction.
“Oh no!” hollered the pink unicorn woefully. “If it goes that way….”
“Use the Windy card!” advised the lion creature quickly and loudly.
“How?!”
“Call out her name, focus, and command it!”
While unsure, the filly did as the creature told her. She pulled forth the card and pulled out a pink staff with a head similar to a bird head. The pony started focusing her thoughts and will before she began her incantation. “Creation of Clow, lend your power to my key! Release!”
The filly then tapped the beak of the staff onto the card. “Windy!” she called out.
From the card, as it glowed, a creature began forming, materializing with the air and magic. It looked like a horse with an appearance similar to the Wendigos of legend. While those creatures were malicious by nature, this equine appeared far more benevolent and gentle. She floated before her master and her friends, waiting for a command from the former.
“Guide the card to our destination!”
The creature obeyed and soared to the bird. It was soon next to the avian and pushed to the left. The beast let out a cry in pain but complied with the new direction. The ghostly creature returned to its master and flew back into its card when finished with its task.
“Nice work, Sakura,” the small beast complimented. He then hollered out energetically, “Now let’s go get that card!”
“Roger that!” exclaimed the Pegasus readily.
Immediately, the young Pegasus flapped her wing faster, and they sped after the magical creature.
Meanwhile, some pony else had been preparing all this time. Over by an orchard, near a clubhouse built on a tree, a yellow Earth pony stood looking a mess. She also appeared content with tools all around her. The mare with the red mane tied in a pink bow saw over a big ramp stretching several feet out and high. Not a shoddily built one either; a certain shipwright of a particular group would be impressed. She certainly was. As she admired her work, the filly began to feel the wind pick up. There then came a loud caw of a bird that caught the Earth pony’s attention. She looked back to see the giant bird soaring over the trees towards her.
“Here it comes…” she muttered.
She then looked into the woods. Right below the flying creature, the pony saw her friends speeding towards her way. “Over here, guys!” she shouted while also waving at them.
“Look!” the white unicorn shouted. “She’s ready!”
“All ahead full, Scootaloo!” exclaimed the flying creature.
The Pegasus, Scootaloo, replied energetically, “You got it!” She then pushed her little wings to go faster.
The extra speed gained allowed the group to catch up with the magical bird. They were right beneath the bird and keeping up with it. In following the magic beast, the group rolled up the structure without pause. The group ascended quickly and flew off straight at the bird. They sailed high, but the group only made it halfway up.
But no one was worried. “Go!” shouted everyone but Sakura.
The unicorn already knew what to do, and she held up a new card. “Jump!” she summoned forth.
Magic flowed out of the card and began to form tiny wings upon Sakura’s hooves. She then jumped as everyone began falling. The unicorn filly soared all the way up to the beast’s neck, to which she quickly grabbed hold. Not because she was desperate or scared; she was gently caressing the bird’s neck in a hug. The bird beast stopped moving, stunned utterly by the action.
“It’s okay,” Sakura said, speaking softly, “I know you’re in a lot of pain right now….”
The bird immediately began to calm down. It sensed the calming nature of the filly. All its rage and fear disappeared, and with it, its size reduced.
Unfortunately, this meant that nothing was keeping Sakura afloat. The filly began to fall while holding the now-small bird creature in her front legs. Once terrifying and magnetic, the magic animal was now innocent and cute as it nestled in its captor’s forelegs. This appeared to be the end of the little pony.
Miraculously, there was a grove of trees beneath the falling filly. Not only this, but the trees also began moving their branches towards the child. They caught her and cushioned her with their leaves. The action of these usually immobile plants did not go unnoticed by the filly.
“Thank you,” Sakura said to the trees.
Floating down, the little plushie creature arrived. “Nice work, Sakura,” he said in congratulations. He then floated over to the tiny bird, snuggled comfortably in the fillies forelegs.
“You caught the Fly card. This one will be handy for your quest.”
Then, both Scootaloo and the two unicorns stuck their heads out from the foliage. The three fillies looked okay, with only their manes slightly a mess and a few leaves sticking out. They all peered towards Sakura and then the bird, gushing immediately at the cute magical creature.
Meanwhile, below them, the Earth pony nodded. “Okay, Woodsy,” she stated proudly, “let’s bring our friends down.”
Behind her, a tall and bearing creature made entirely of wood began to groan deeply. The trees that caught the group started to shake and stir and creak. They began to recede back into the ground, their branches and leaves shrinking while doing so. At the same time, the plants carried their passengers gently down. The flora soon disappeared into the ground, which returned to normal. The creature – “Woodsy” – then began to glow, its form dissipating and becoming magic that formed into a card. It then floated to the Earth pony hoof. A picture soon appeared of the creature from before, along with a name, “The Wood.”
“That was awesome!” shouted the Earth pony excitedly. She then rushed over to the group, carrying the card along with her.
The plushie animal flew up next to the Earth pony. “Great work on that ramp, Apple Bloom, and on using the Wood card.”
“Thanks, Kero,” the Earth pony – Apple Bloom – said in gratitude.
Sakura then spoke, “Um, Kero, how can I help heal her?”
“That’ll be easy,” the creature – Kero – said confidently. “Just change her back to a card and sign your name like usual.”
The filly nodded and began to chant. “Fly Card, return to the form that you were meant to be in,” she said gently.
Gently placing her staff over the bird, a glowing card formed immediately. The creature began to glow and dissipate into magic, much like how “Woodsy” did. Its magic flowed into the translucent object, making it physical. Together, the two created a new card with a picture of the Fly card creature, and a name appeared below it, “the Fly.” Sakura then wrote her name beneath the card’s name, which glowed and disappeared into the material. The filly smiled as she held the card up and read its name.
“The Fly Card…”
Filming the whole scene, the unicorn with the snail smiled. “Excellent,” she commented.
“Hey! Hey! Hey!” Kero said as he pulled the filly’s hoof with the snail to himself. “Tomoyo, don’t forget to get a shot of me with your Transponder Snail, the noble and stunning Guardian of the book of Clow, Keroberus.”
Then, Scootaloo took hold of the filly’s hoof. “Did you get a good shot of me?”
Soon followed by another filly doing the same: the other unicorn. “I know I didn’t get to do much this time besides the planning but was I at least seen, right?”
“Move aside, Sweetie Belle,” said Kero as he floated in front of her face while facing the snail. He then stated proudly, “Let the real star shine.”
“Hmm? Sakura?” the unicorn – Sweetie Belle – said cluelessly before looking over to the filly. She and everyone ignored the fact that the plushie creature meant himself.
Overhearing them, Sakura became bashful and began to blush. “It was a team effort. Everyone helped me.”
“Yeah!” Apple Bloom chirped. “We all did our part.”
The royal blue mane unicorn – Tomoyo – smiled and commented aloud to everyone, “Well done, everyone.”
“Everyone,” Apple Bloom said eagerly as she stuck her hoof out, “bring it in.”
The other three fillies smiled and quickly joined with the Earth pony. Tomoyo did not join the others but held her Transponder Snail out towards the group, capturing the moment. What the snail was witnessing was the other three fillies joining their hooves with Apple Bloom. Kero did the same as he floated down to join his paw with the other girls.
“All together…” said Apple Bloom
And together, they all – even Tomoyo – shouted, “Cutie Mark Crusaders….” The group then threw their hooves and paw into the air.
“Cardcaptors!”
The Crusade Takes Flight
A pink petal falls listlessly within a black void. The single petal then landed upon something, causing a ripple of blue energy. The blackness fades to a blue sky with a few white clouds. From above, cards begin to twirl and fall down, roughly 50 or so.
Then, four fillies appear are seen in quick succession with a playfully colorful backdrop.
Scootaloo, glancing back from the right with a smile, wearing aviator goggles.
Sweetie Belle, glancing back from the left with a smile.
Popping down from above, Apple Bloom grinning.
Finally, from below, Sakura wearing a light pink bonnet while she held a card and her staff determinedly.
Cutie Mark Crusader Cardcaptors A MLP: NiM story
Fullscreen, Apple Bloom appears, trotting along contently.
How I want to
The Earth pony fades away and is quickly replaced by Sweetie Belle trotting, seen closer in view.
Wanna see you
After the unicorn, also fading out, Scootaloo appears fading in on her scooter, dashing along.
All these feelings Building up inside
Finally, Sakura appears, wearing a bike helmet, after Apple Bloom. She looks very hopeful.
I can’t help it Wanna say it
Sakura, now without her gear, stands in an apple orchard. Her back is to a semi-transparent youth stallion with a light blue coat and silvery-white mane carrying a satchel. The filly turns to catch a glimpse of the older pony and blushes immediately.
Here’s my chance! But again it flies away
The Cutie Mark Crusaders’ flag drops over the scene. Sakura is now joined by the original members of the CMC first. Tomoyo, holding her Transponder Snail, and Kero, floating just above, appear around the main group. A little grey-violet filly unicorn came galloping over to the group while passing another kid. He is a young unicorn colt with a brown mane and beige whose cutie mark was a sword over a giant star. Unlike the others, he was separate and looking away from the group, except for a moment of peeking back.
When will (When will) When will (When will)
The Sealing Key dangles from a chain. A magic sphere encases it as we pan out to reveal that Sakura is the one casting the magic. The key then grows until it becomes a staff.
Our wings flutter as we fly together
Sakura then takes hold of the staff with her magic. She then races forward happily.
A marathon for you and I [Then, when Sakura hops, Apple Bloom appears beside her running] Dreaming as we race across the sky [Scootaloo and then Sweetie Belle join in, and all four make a leap together.]
Can you [Tomoyo, with her Snail Transponder, looking blissfully content]Catch you
Catch you [A silver mane and white coat Earth pony teen stallion]
Catch me [A dark brown mane and light pink coat unicorn teen stallion]
Catch me [A brown mane and white-grey coat unicorn adult stallion]
Maybe [Kero, holding a takoyaki ball. He then eats it.
Look my way and say That you really feel the same
Scene: At Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse, the original three plus Sakura, Tomoyo, Kero, and the grey-violet filly stood on the balcony. They all looked out towards the horizon happily and contently.
Hey its[The grey-purple unicorn filly turns around smiles]
Nice to meet you
Good to see you [The colt with the sword cutie mark is looking away but glances back stubbornly]
Really
Every little feeling I had for you will Fly out Fly out Fly to your heart
Scootaloo, with a giant pair of wings, flies up into the sky carrying her friends, including Sakura, in a hot-air balloon basket. Kero follows after, cheerfully so. The sizeable object did nothing to hinder the Pegasus down as she happily soared with everyone. Everyone else peered forward as they shared in the joy the flying pony was having.
May they make their mark!
Sakura is galloping fast down a path before she catches up to her friends waiting for her. Together, the group begins to walk and converse as they head towards their next task.
It all gave way to a scene of a clear night sky with millions of stars shining. The large and bright moon shined upon a depilated castle surrounded by a forest. Outside the gate, a unicorn filly stood ready in a pink and yellow outfit with a cape. She held in her magic aura a staff with a birdlike head. Next to her was a small plushie creature like a lion without a mane with wings. It floated next to the pony as cards began falling listlessly like flower petals. Neither one seemed to mind the display, especially the girl.
"I'm ready…" spoke the filly.
The creature looked at her but did not say a word.
At the tallest point of the ruined castle, something heard the little pony's declaration. While being able to see the body, two large white wings unfolded and scattered feathers. The plumage began surrounding the castle in a whirlwind as if protecting the place.
Regardless, the filly stepped forward. Tiny magical wings sprouted suddenly around the pony's hooves before stopping in front of the gorge. The little unicorn then closed their eyes before falling forward fearlessly.
Then…
"Sakura…"
"Sakura..."
Inside a pink room, the plushie from the dream hovered by the same filly, attempting to wake her up. The little creature even tried jostling her out of her sleep, but the little pony would not rise. Finally, a more drastic measure was needed.
"Wake up, Sakura!" the plushie creature shouted.
It did the trick; the filly awoke with a frightened scream. The plushie creature had avoided colliding with the pony and soon informed the pony of the situation. "You're gonna be late for school if you don't get a move on…"
The filly, Sakura, tiredly rubbed her eyes. She let out a whine, "I hate morning wake-ups…"
Without a Shadow of a Doubt
Hello! My name is Sakura Kinomoto. I'm attending Ms. Cheerilee's class…
Quickly, Sakura began preparing herself for the day. A quick come of her mane and tying two small side ponytails with a red bead band. She then topped her appearance with a white sailor hat with black trim.
I hate math, but I like music and P.E., so I guess you could say I'm the peppy type…
"Don't forget your bag," Kero said as he carried a backpack.
Sakura grabbed the pack. "Thanks, Kero!" she said gratefully and quickly.
This is Kero-chan!
A-hem. It's Cerberus. But it's too long, and Kero-chan is cuter. But it's not cool at all!
He may look like a stuffed animal, but he's really alive! He's a…
"Oh no!" shouted Sakura as she noticed the clock. "I'm going to be late!"
As the filly rushed off, taking he saddle bag as advised, the floating plushie waved her off. "Good luck out there, kid," he chirped quickly.
The little pony rushed out of her room and down the stairs, making a lot of noise doing so. Once she reached the ground level, she ran to the kitchen but pumped into someone. It was an older male Earth pony with a tan coat and darker brown mane cut short with it parting left. Unlike the filly, he had a cutie mark; it was a yellow hard hat. The stallion had a mug in his hoof that nearly spilled its content on him when Sakura ran into him.
"On a rampage already?" spoke the stallion teasingly. "Pretty early for a little monster to be stomping around."
The comment made Sakura instantly peeved. "I'm not a monster!"
This meanie is my big brother, Touya. He's already at working-age and has a lot of jobs. I don't know if it's 'cause he's older, but I've never won a fight against him, Agghh—It drives me crazy! One day, I'm gonna win for sure!
While the two siblings skirmished, another pony appeared from the kitchen. Older than the first stallion, he was a light purple unicorn with a short light-brown mane. His own cutie mark was a pointed amphora vase (a type of Greek vase). Using his soft gold-colored magic, the stallion was carrying a tray with three bowls of freshly made oatmeal and two drinks. As he noticed his children, he was amused by their interaction.
"It looks like you two are close this morning."
Upon hearing the stallion, the two siblings ceased bickering. Despite their previous animosity, both ponies sat at the table with the older one. All three then enjoyed breakfast together.
That's my father, Fujitaka. He's an archeology professor at a university in Canterlot. He's very nice, not to mention a whiz at cooking and sewing. I love him.
In a short time, the family of three finished eating. Everyone quickly cleaned up together and prepared to head out. Before any member left, Sakura approached a credenza in the living room. There was a picture frame with a photo of an Earth pony mare with a white snow fur coat and a long wavy mane of lavender. As she gazed at the display, the little unicorn began to smile fondly before giving it a greeting.
"See you later, Mom. Please continue to watch over me and Dad and Touya."
That's my mom. She died when I was little. I don't remember much about her, but I'm always told she loved me dearly.
Despite that, I'm not lonely. I have my dad and my brother, even if he is a jerk sometimes. And I have Kero-chan…
It's Cerberus!
And I also have…
Once the daily ritual of family breakfast was over, the Kinomoto family left their house. Fujitaka gave his love to Sakura, affectionately, and Touya, more reserved, before sending them both off before turning to go his way. Both siblings trotted along together, Sakura often trying to overtake her brother's pace. Sibling rivalry could be why, but the two siblings were actually trying to be the first to meet a particular pony. Just down the street, a white earth pony stallion with a short light grey mane was happily waving to the two siblings.
"Good morning."
Touya arrived first. "Yo," he said coolly.
The white pony then addressed the young filly. "Good morning, Sakura. You're up early."
Tired and blushing profusely, Sakura replied, "Y-Yup!"
"You should have seen the little monster eating its breakfast—"
As Touya was attempted to tease and embarrass her, Sakura sent a swift jab to her brother's side. It instantly silenced the stallion's tongue, which the other pony found amusing.
Yukito Tsukishiro. I can't believe he's best friends with brother the barbarian. Such a sweet, beautiful person.
Now joined by Yukito, the three ponies now walked together in relative peace. It was not long when the group of three soon came close to Ponyville Schoolhouse. From there, Sakura had to say goodbye to Yukito and join the other fillies and colts going to school. Just before leaving, the young stallion tossed a piece of candy to the filly as a present. It made the pink unicorn blissful, so much so that she did not realize some ponies approaching her from behind.
"Would you look at that..."
"Yukito is so dreamy."
"Cool! You got some candy.
"Hey there, Sakura!"
Of course, I also have my friends!
Broken out of her daze, Sakura turned around to find four fillies around her age greeting her. There was one Pegasus who had an orange coat and a short purple mane. Next, a unicorn with a light grey coat and a grayish mulberry mane with pale, light grayish rose streaks. After was the Earth pony that had a light-yellow coat with a bright red mane tied in a light crimson bow. Lastly, another Earth pony had a soft black coat and long grey-violet mane with the same hat as Sakura. She, unlike the other three, also had a cutie mark. It was a blue octagonal-square topaz. All of them were looking cheerful and happy.
Sakura replied joyfully, "Good morning!"
Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and my best friend, Tomoyo Daidouji. Together, we're a group called the 'Cutie Mark Crusader.' Even though Tomoyo already has hers, she's still helping us find our talents!
Together, the friends joined the rest of their classmates as they entered the schoolhouse. As time went by, it was eventually time for both recess and lunch. Having once been restrained by the curriculum, the fillies and colts were now free to play and unwind until lessons came again an hour or so later. Many of the yearlings took to the playground, having had quick lunches or not hungry. Others gathered in small groups and had mini picnics around the area. One of those groups was the Cutie Mark Crusaders, a bit more separated from the rest. They were having a conversation of a more private nature.
"Did every pony get back home without getting caught?" asked Tomoyo inquisitively.
Scootaloo responded first. "Yeah! My aunts don't wake up for anything unless it's the sun."
"Same for my parents," stated Sweetie Belle.
"Getting around Granny and Big Mac is easy. It's keeping Winona from waking everyone up is the hard part, but if you give her a few treats, she'll stay quiet," explained Apple Bloom.
The little Earth pony then added, "It would've been harder if my sister was here, but you know."
"You guys are lucky." Sakura said exasperatedly, "The noise Kero-chan made nearly got me caught by my big brother."
Tomoyo let out a little giggle. "Sounds like everything went well in the end."
"Barely…"
"I wouldn't say it was all well." Scootaloo then looked to her flank, still bare. "We've captured three cards, and no cutie mark capturing Clow cards."
Apple Bloom also added, "Or forestry."
"Or catching animals," Sweetie Belle further included to the list.
Sakura nodded in agreement. "Kero-chan did say they were a lot of cards. Maybe we have to collect them all?"
"I hope the next card then is something like 'The Cutie Mark' card," said Scootaloo.
Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes. "Yeah, because someone great like this Clow Reed guy would need to make a card like that."
"He made one called 'The Jump!'"
"Have you ever seen a pony jump that high?"
As an argument was about form, Sakura swiftly interjected herself to calm everyone down. "H-Hey! Every new card is a new opportunity to get a cutie mark, right? So, every card is like a potential 'The Cutie Mark' card."
Both fillies were swayed by their mutual friend's reasoning. Apple Bloom silently thanked Sakura for ending another potential argument among the group. For Tomoyo, she expected nothing less and was proud of her dear friend. The group then returned their picnic and enjoying their break.
"Ahhh!"
A unison of screams suddenly disturbed the peace of the playground. Every pony, the Cutie Mark Crusaders especially, came galloping to the source. It was Snips and Snails, two unicorn friends, and the pair had been spooked by their shadows. The two dim colts swore that they saw their projections begin to move and frighteningly change shape. Not many of their peers believed them, and were soon back to their usual routine. Those that did were none other than the Cutie Mark Crusaders. While not sure what their two classmates saw, they did promise to do what they could to alleviate their fears.
"Cutie Mark Crusaders…Inspectors!" announced the group enthusiastically.
Unfortunately, there came two condescending voices spoke aloud. "Typical. The Blank Flank Brigade believe in their crazy story."
"It's so sad what ponies will do for their cutie marks."
All the Cutie Mark Crusaders frowned and turned to see their aggravators. It was a pair of Earth pony fillies, one with a pale magenta coat and the other gray. The first had pale, light grayish violet mane with white streaks, and the other had two shades of light gray. A tiara was adorned the first and was also her cutie mark while the other had a silver spoon and wore glasses and green pearls. Both wore arrogant smirks as they approached the group.
"Well, we think there's something to be investigated here," said Apple Bloom matter-of-factly.
Scootaloo quickly came to back her friend up. "Yeah! So, butt out, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon!"
"Pathetic." Diamond Tiara then looked over to Tomoyo, who remained neutral in appearance. She spoke more formally, "You know, Tomoyo, you're still always welcomed to join us. Hang out with a cooler group of friends."
"Why you…!" Scootaloo was about to pounce and attack the filly but was stopped by Tomoyo herself.
"Once again, no, thank you." Tomoyo stated calmly and clearly, "I am very happy with my friends."
Diamond Tiara shrugged at first, behaving unusually proper. "Suit yourself, but when you're finally tired of hanging with the rabble, you know where to find us."
Apple Bloom shouted irately, "Just get out of here already!"
The two snotty fillies left, doing so in a standoffish manner. It helped to peeve off most of the Cutie Mark Crusaders as an attempt to persuade the collected Tomoyo. Of course, nothing changed for the filly as she watched the snobbish ponies leave out of their sight. Even with those mean mares gone, however, the group was still simmering mad.
"What is wrong with those guys," Sakura said mad.
"All they ever seem to do is pick on us. And just for not having cutie marks! It's not like they've had there's for long."
"They're just stuck up," stated Sweetie Belle, upset. "Being rich does that to…"
Sweetie Belle immediately shut her mouth and glanced over at Tomoyo, who appeared happily content. The white unicorn, though, quickly apologized, "Sorry. I didn't mean to say that all rich ponies are like them."
Tomoyo was not offended. She politely told her friend, "It is okay, Sweetie Belle. But you should never judge a book by its cover."
Suddenly, joint screams echoed out, "Ahhhh!" And once again, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were at the scene.
This time it was Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon who had seen something relating to their shadows. It would have been easy to taunt the two for their previous offense. However, Sakura reigned in the personalities of her fellow Crusaders. Afterward, the group attempted to procure any information or detail about this strange phenomenon for the rest of the school session. Many of their peers confessed to having encountered the spook but kept quiet out of fear of being ridiculed. Now everyone but the Cutie Mark Crusaders had come across the apparition. Unfortunately, in searching on their own for it, they were unable to spot it.
Once school was over, the Cutie Mark Crusaders had it set to come back to investigate further. They would meet back up once their families were asleep. It would also give them time to prepare in the case of Tomoyo. The sun now sets, and the moon rises, and night's shroud settled over the land to provide the cover for the young fillies. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo arrived first at outside their school and waited for their friends. When the others arrived, they came with Kero-chan, and both the plushie and Sakura were dressed up for the occasion.
Sakura wore a long-sleeved, navy blue leotard with a white vest-tailcoat with gold lining worn over it. A red cape with four long tails is worn over the first ensemble pinned with a red bow. Topping it all, the unicorn filly had a red beret hat. Cerberus had a much simpler, only wearing a red ribbon with a triangular gold buckle. All three of the original Cutie Mark Crusaders were impressed.
"Nice getups, Tomoyo!" Apple Bloom said amazedly.
From out of seemingly nowhere, Tomoyo pulled out a garment rack with three other costumes in the wait. She then told her three friends, enthusiastically, "I, of course, have outfits for all of you as well."
A quick outfit change later, the original Cutie Mark Crusaders were now donned in garb. The three fillies wore outfits like Sakura's own. Each wore a white tailcoat like their friend with their trims green, sky blue, and light purple. They all also wore red beret hats though smaller. It was nice, but all three took notice of a theme.
"I guess we're supporting Sakura again," Sweetie Belle said curiously.
"Well, she is the only one I chose to capture the Clow Cards," stated Kero. He then encouragingly told the group, "But hey, looking pretty slick, guys."
The Clow Cards…
Kero-chan told us that they are powerful artifacts made by a powerful unicorn known as Clow Reed. If they aren't captured, a disaster will befall the town. He also made Kero, to protect them.
But a few things happened…
Tomoyo then pulled out her pink Video Transponder Snail. She awakened the snail before telling her friends, "Cherry Blossom and I are ready. Let's go capture that card."
"Alright!"
Carefully, the group entered the area and began their search. In their first few minutes of looking around, most of the group felt frightened by their surroundings. Despite knowing their school was nice and warm appearing in the day, it was like it transformed into a haunting place at night. Nothing was like it was when they were here, and it made many of them on edge. Sakura was incredibly scared as she had a fear of ghosts.
"It's weird that you're afraid of spooks when we're after these Clow Cards that do all sorts of magic and such," replied Apple Bloom.
Sakura, surprisingly, wore a determined expression when answering back. "But its magic, so it can be explained. But ghosts…"
Tomoyo whispered to the other two Crusaders, "Her brother used to tell her ghost stories and play pranks on involving ghost…"
"Ah," responded the two fillies.
"I don't know about ghosts," spoke Kero as he floated around, "but I am definitely feeling something here…"
Suddenly, there came a sound like a creaking metal. It surprised the fillies who turned to see that it was the swings shifting to and fro. The only problem was there was no wind to move the objects. A sight that scared most of the group. Then, the rocking bugs begin to sway as well, making the group more on edge. Not long after, the trees started rustling along with bushes all around the group. The group gathered defensively in wait of whatever was causing the ruckus. Everyone was getting nervous, but Tomoyo was catching it everything with her Cameko.
"Guys…" Sakura said worriedly.
"This is definitely the work of a Clow Card," Kero stated concernedly.
"You sure?!" said Sweetie Belle panicking.
The school bell soon began to ring, shocking the group. As they all looked over at the belfry, no one saw something forming behind them from a puddle of a black substance. It rose from the much and looked like a beast of darkness, resembling a giant jaguar. Once finally up, it stepped forward with a loud thud that gained the attention of the group. They immediately freaked.
"A monster!"
Quickly, the group separated with Scootaloo, Tomoyo, and Kero sticking together. The tactic, though unplanned, helped confuse the monster for a moment. It, however, soon settled upon the largest group and stalked towards them. Both Kero and Scootaloo were freaking out while the Earth pony kept the Cameko on the beast unafraid. Sakura quickly acted in seeing her friends I trouble.
"Scootaloo!" The pink filly then picked out a card. "Here!"
Launching the card, it was caught by the Pegasus filly. She looked at the front quickly and nodded. "Fly Card!" Scootaloo shouted.
Instantly, a glow came over the card. The magic then responded with the desire of its user. It attached its power to the most noticeable spot, her wings. It grew the filly's normal appendages to become many times large and made them majestically white. A fantastic sight, but there was no time to marvel at them. Scootaloo immediately took hold of Tomoyo and Kero before flying for the sky.
"Whoa-ho-ho!" shouted the little Pegasus ecstatically. "I'm…flying!"
Kero soon freed himself from the filly's hold. He floated next to her and told her, "Good save Scoots."
Unaffected, and still focusing the Cameko on the scene, Tomoyo asked curiously, "What is that?"
The little plushie creature looked down upon the beast. It had seen where its prey had fled to and was continuing its stalking of them. Kero soon noticed another aspect of the creature. Despite its massive form, it produced no shadow of its own, merely walking in a moving field of blackness. It was clear to the flying plushie of the identity of the creature.
"The Shadow Card!" Kero then shouted an explanation, "It's the one messing with all those kids! And doing all the creepy stuff earlier."
Hearing her friend, Sakura understood that it was time to act. She immediately pulled out a little key with a bird head fob. "Key which hides the powers of the dark. Reveal your true form before me. I, Sakura Kinomoto, command you under our contract."
"Release!" A glow appeared around the object. It began to float before spinning within the sphere until stopping. Imbued with magic, the item grew and enlarged until it became a staff.
Using her magic aura, Sakura took ahold of the newly formed staff. With a card already in mind, the filly held it up with her hoof. She began another incantation, "Creation of Clow, lend your power to my key!"
Sakura spun the card from her hoof, and it began to float in the air before her. She twirled her staff before tapping its birdlike head onto the card's picture. "Bestow your power unto my key!"
"Windy!"
Through the card, a being of magic and wind was summoned forth. Windy, a beautiful mare like a spirit, commanded the winds and soared towards the shadow beast. However, the creature was unafraid as when the ethereal being came at it, she passed through with little resistance. Everyone watching gasped with surprise.
"Why didn't Windy work?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"That's not its real body," explained Kero. "It is being empowered by the shadows! We need to disperse them if we want its real body to appear."
Apple Bloom asked, "How do we shrink a shadow?"
Sakura thought quickly and answered, "With light! But I don't know how since its nighttime…"
"If we could get into the schoolhouse…" suggested Apple Bloom.
Flying in low, Scootaloo stated, "But it's locked."
Tomoyo immediately had a suggestion. "What about Ms. Twilight's Library?"
The proposal was an instant good idea. Together, the fillies worked to draw the beast's attention, bringing it away from the school and into town. All except Tomoyo, safely recording their antics, had the Shadow chase after them through the streets of Ponyville. They were careful in leading it, making sure not to disturb any pony's home or business. And they were especially cautious if anyone was out. Through skill and luck, the group was able to bring it to Golden Oaks Library.
Quickly, Scootaloo and Tomoyo, being the first to reach it, opened the door to remove the obstacle. The others dashed inside the dark, and the Shadow followed in after them. Despite being large, it was able to shift through the opening like a cat. It prowled through the room in search of its prey, but the only source of light – the open door – was suddenly closed. Before it could react, the lights came on instantly. Each member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders was by a switch or candle, standing firmly. The beast began to both figuratively and literally shrink from being illuminated. As it became smaller, its form changed to become less threatening and beastly. From a once fearsome jaguar beast, the Shadow was now only a black cat.
"Aww~" uttered both Sweetie Belle and Tomoyo adoringly.
Sakura immediately asked confusedly, "Is that Shadow's real form?"
"Yep!" said Kero affirmatively. "Cute little guy, ain't he?"
Despite having been behaving so savagely, the Shadow appeared almost coy or indifferent to its previous actions. It only began licking its forelimb as if to clean itself.
"Well, what are you waiting for?" said Scootaloo impatiently, "Capture it, Sakura!"
"Oh, right!" Immediately, Sakura brought up her staff. She then aimed it on the cat.
"Return to the form you were meant to be in…" A circle formed with symbols of a sun, moon, and a dodecagon star polygon from around the black cat. Sakura then lifted her staff and then lowered over the creature where an opaque, card-shaped object formed.
The filly then announced, "Clow Card!"
Immediately, the shadow cat began flowing into the object. As its magical being was absorbed, the item became filled until the creature was gone entirely. Now complete, the card now had an image of the cat and a title below it, "the Shadow." It then floated over to Sakura, who took ahold of it in awe.
"Another card down!" cheered Apple Bloom.
"Great work, everyone," said Tomoyo, finally putting down her Transponder Snail. She then looked over at Sakura, smiling proudly.
"And an especially good job to you, Sakura."
"Thanks, Tomoyo," said Sakura relievedly.
When I joined my friends to look after this library, I found the Book of Clow and accidentally released all the Clow Cards.
It wouldn't have happened if Kero wasn't sleeping. Hey! I've been guarding those cards for nearly a thousand years! I deserve a nap every now and then. Do you always decide that when a bunch of precocious scamps are running around looking through books? …I kinda overslept… And then you roped us into finding all those cards you lost. You all agreed!
Anyway, now it's our mission to not only find our cutie marks but also search and capture all the escaped Clow Cards!
At night, in Ponyville Town Hall, there was a security guard supposed to be standing duty. There was one, but the pony's capacity was anything but professional. Sitting by the door, the Earth pony stallion with a unique m-shaped unibrow was sleeping soundly. The blue-uniformed pony was supposed to be keeping an eye on the art displays, which were draped and covered. Despite his position, the guard looked comfortable, especially since he was snoring so loudly. It was like the stallion did not have a care in the world.
However, something within the room was being disturbed by the guard's careless sleep. The white sheet began to flail from one of the displays, and a dim glow emanated around it. That same glow soon engulfed the snoring security guard before he suddenly vanished from his place.
"Ow!" Now, outside, the guard stallion was awake, and a bit dazed. He was lying on the ground until he sat up and looked around.
"How'd I get outside?" asked Ryo-san confusedly.
Sound Off!
A short time had passed, everything was like it had always been for your average Ponyville-living pony. Businesses were profiting, the day was bright, and every pony had nothing to worry about. It was especially true now for Ponyville Schoolhouse. The mystery of the shadow had been solved, and it became nothing more than a myth. School life returned to normal, and so did the lives of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
Today, after school, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were at the Golden Oaks Library. Along with them was Kero, who was mostly lazing about. The fillies were busy cleaning up around the library. Helping them was the pet of the resident of this place, Owlowicious the owl. The accommodating avian guided the fillies the best it could in organizing her home. Despite the communication barrier, all the ponies did their best.
Of course, except for Kero, who earned the irk of Owlowicious. Like, when the little plushie creature was eating atop some of the books. He was met with a fury of pecks.
"Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow! Quit it!"
Sakura let out a sigh. "I told you that you should be helping," she told the little guardian.
Taking cover below the table, Kero let out a response. "It's not my job to clean this place up! You guys are the ones that accepted to house watch!"
"And you're the one making the mess," stated Apple Bloom.
Eventually, Sakura convinced Owlowicious to stop pestering Kero, allowing the small creature to leave his hiding spot. He was relieved to be free, but he had more to speak. "Why are you guys housesitting this place anyway? Who lives here?"
"My sister's friend, Twilight Sparkle, lives here, and she asked us to look after the library while she, my sister, and their friends went out sailing," explained Apple Bloom.
"Oh," Tomoyo said in realization, "she's that unicorn who saved the town from the Ursa Minor, right?"
"Yeah!"
"I remember her! She was so brave, and cool, and so magical…" Sakura said amazedly.
Kero was intrigued. As he returned to his spot, he told the group, "An Ursa Minor, huh. That's pretty impressive. It usually takes someone like Clow Reed to handle one."
"Whoa, really!" said Sakura, amazed.
"So, you're saying, Twilight Sparkle is as powerful as that Clow Reed guy?" asked Sweetie Belle.
Shrugging, Kero then stated, "Maybe, but I wouldn't know. I've never met this Twilight pony. But, if she's as smart as you all say she is, then she definitely has what it takes to be some-pony great someday."
Scootaloo looked at the plushie creature deridingly as she stated, "So, why didn't you pick here to be a Cardcaptor?"
"Hmm." Kero hummed as he thought about the question in earnest. He then shrugged again before stating carefreely.
"Guess she didn't have the right aptitude for the seal to break."
Sakura asked, "But I did? I have trouble even levitating a book. I could never take on an Ursa Minor like she or Clow could."
"Magic isn't always about how powerful you are. Sometimes, it's about knowing how to use what you have.
Apple Bloom eagerly pointed out, "Kinda like how you use those cards to help other cards or us helping you."
"Hoooeee?!" Sakura shouted as she began to blush with embarrassment. She then told everyone, nervously, "I'm not all that good, really."
Tomoyo smiled warmly before informing her best friend, "Don't say that. You've been doing a great job capturing the Clow Cards."
"She's right, kid," agreed Kero. "You've already acquired five cards. You're already on a good start."
"By the way," spoke Sweetie Belle curiously. "How many cards are there, exactly?"
Kero answered quickly, "Fifty-two."
Most of the fillies stared at the little creature, absolutely dumbfounded. Kero assured the group that despite the large number, the Clow cards were unlikely to activate all at once. While helpful, the group felt their simple task became a bit more daunting now. Still, they had each other, and as Sakura always said, "Everything will definitely be alright!"
Once the Cutie Mark Crusaders were done tidying the library, they galloped off for their next chance for their cutie marks. Kero hid in Sakura's saddlebag, not wanting to draw attention to himself. From Golden Oaks Library, the group made it over to Ponyville City Hall, where a large crowd was already present. Today, there was an exhibition of culture with a focus on arts and performances. A stage was set up, and many ponies were demonstrating their talents for all to see. One of the many performers was none other than the Cutie Mark Crusader's own Tomoyo.
"Are you ready?" asked Sakura, backstage with the others.
Tomoyo nodded. She was calm and poised without a hint of doubt. She was wearing the Cutie Mark Crusader's cap to represent her group for the town. The mare also wore a white bonnet hat to enhance her appearance further.
Sweetie Belle then walked over, holding a Snail Transponder. "Do you want me to take Cherry and record your performance, Tomoyo?"
The prim pony's façade broke immediately with mild trepidation. "Oh, no. That's Blossom, and she's only for when we do Cardcaptor activities."
"Oh, okay then." Sweetie Belle, thus, returned the snail to where she found it.
"Lady Tomoyo." A steely voice spoke that brought everyone's attention to the side. On-standby was a group of tuxedo-wearing mares. The cool group was also carrying musical instruments.
The head mare then spoke, "We are ready for your performance."
Nodding, Tomoyo responded gratefully, "Thank you for helping us."
"Of course, my Lady," said the head mare with a curt bow mirrored by the others behind her.
It was soon time for Tomoyo's performance. After some final preparations, the other Cutie Mark Crusaders were ready to go on stage with her as well. The act ahead of them was quickly finishing up. It was a dance act being performed and sung by three teenage mares from a club called the "SOS Brigade." Once the trio was done and off, Tomoyo and the other Cutie Mark Crusaders came out on stage along with the small band of well-suited female musicians.
The mayor, Mayor Mare, then introduced the group. "And now, the Cutie Mark Crusaders featuring Ms. Tomoyo.
"Good luck!" shouted Scootaloo suddenly.
After the light applauding, the Cutie Mark Crusaders began their performance. While most of the crusaders sang the chorus, Tomoyo chanted the lyrics as they harmonized.
"Like an angel with cruel and merciless intent Go forth, young mare And you'll become a legend."
The band immediately began playing their instruments. It was a few seconds of performing before Tomoyo continued.
"In time, this blue of the sky Will reach out to knock on the door to your heart You're looking at me, make it all that you see Content and we're merely smiling."
Everything was going smoothly. The chorus-singing Cutie Mark Crusaders took notice of the crowd listening to their performance. No pony was not enjoying the song; some were even dancing to it. Thoughts of their cutie marks appearing from this concert made the fillies nearly giddy with excitement. Luckily, the group kept their calm and stayed on tempo.
But then, something odd happened during the performance.
"This was all a Cruel Angel's Thesis from the start "This was all a Cruel Angel's Thesis from the start
Brought to life, out the window, now it's taking flight" Brought to life, out the window, now it's taking flight"
Everyone on stage noticed the second voice, though continued performing. What was strange was that the voice sounded like Tomoyo's own. The bodyguards began looking around to see who was interjecting into their lady's concert. Meanwhile, the singing filly kept chanting.
"Shining more than these st-" "Shining more than these stars that bathe the galaxy
"Go forth, young mare, and you'll become a legend!"
With the extra voice gone, the bodyguards ceased their search. They then finished off their concert by ending it with an instrumental. Once the band completed, the crowd instantly applauded for the group. The Cutie Mark Crusaders, however, had also noticed the unusual dual singing that occurred during the performance. Under the same thought, the group went to Tomoyo to confer with her. To their surprise, one of Tomoyo's bodyguards met them looking worried.
"Tomoyo lost her voice?!"
It was not as simple as Tomoyo's voice being strained or hurt. Literally, the filly had lost her voice and was unable to speak a sound. Her bodyguards were worried sick over their mistress, not understanding how such a thing happened. They soon decided to seek a doctor, and they all rushed off to hopefully find one close. Now that the Cutie Mark Crusaders were alone, they were able to openly voice their real concerns.
"Is this the work of a Clow Card?" asked Scootaloo.
Since it was only the fillies, Kero immediately rushed out of his hiding place to examine the silent singer. He was intrigued but stumped by Tomoyo's condition. "Yep, definitely a Clow Card, but I'm not sure which."
"What do you mean?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"Well, it could be the Silent Card. She hates noise, so she could have used her power to silence Tomoyo's singing. On the other paw, it could have been the Voice Card, who likes to steal a voice if she likes it."
"Those are pretty unusual cards to make," questioned Sakura.
"Clow liked to dabble in a lot of different magic, no matter what the use was or even when they're similar. If I recall right, there's also the Song Card, who can mimic voices to sing."
"But that card can only copy the voice, not steal it, right?" asked Apple Bloom.
Kero nodded. "Yep, so it definitely has to be one of the other two."
Sweetie Belle had a thought. "You said the Silent Card doesn't like noise? So, why isn't the rest of the fair quiet then?"
Making a fair point, the group decided that it was the Voice Card that stole Tomoyo's voice. They only now had to search out the mischievous card. Tomoyo's bodyguards arrived with a doctor soon after their decision. While Tomoyo had to stay behind, the rest of the group decided to split up. Each team took a different section of the area. While Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle went inside, Sakura and Scootaloo were going to look outside and around the building. It was going slow thanks to the large crowd at the event, but the young Pegasus had an idea.
"Let me use the Fly Card, and I can search from above!"
While Sakura was more than willing, Kero interrupted immediately. "No can do, Scootaloo. Can't let the other ponies know about the Clow Cards or everyone will try to get one, and then, there would be real chaos happening."
Scootaloo was not at all pleased. "Killjoy," she told the plushie bitterly.
In response, Kero stuck his tongue out annoyingly, causing Scootaloo to do the same. Sakura was about to attempt to settle their dispute before she heard something familiar. A soft voice carrying a tune through the crowd, sounding all too familiar to her.
"Tomoyo?"
Then, suddenly, screaming drowned out the song, and it also sounded familiar. Before Sakura, or anyone in her group, could notice, two ponies dropped upon them from above. When they all recovered, the group was surprised to find that it was Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle that landed on them. After moving aside, the group conversed on what happened. The white unicorn explained her and Apple Boom's situation.
"We were walking through the art exhibit hall…"
"Which, Sweetie Belle had to comment on every piece," interrupted Apple Bloom annoyedly. "We were supposed to be quiet."
Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes. She then continued telling their story, "And we kinda got into an argument. The next thing I knew, we were fallin' on top of you guys."
Sakura also spoke up. "I heard Tomoyo's voice right before you fell on us, and she was singing too."
Kero began to think aloud as he pieced the evidence together. "Tomoyo lost her voice, Sakura heard Tomoyo's voice singing, and Blooms and Belle were teleported away in a quiet area."
"What do you think, Kero?" asked Sakura.
"That maybe there are three Clow Cards here…" All the fillies let out a gasp.
"Three?! I thought you said they wouldn't activate together?" said Sakura, panicky.
"I said they wouldn't all activate together, but a few could," said Kero with a shrug.
Apple Bloom then asked, "What should we do then?"
"We'll have to come back at night when the crowd's gone. If it's the three cards I think they are, no pony will be hurt."
As Kero suggested, the group waited until nightfall to return to city hall. When the last cleaning ponies left, the Cutie Mark Crusaders appeared from their location behind a building. Silently, the group snuck over to their target. Once so, everyone stuck close to the wall and skimmed it until they reached the entrance. Tomoyo was with them, recording everything as usual. And like before, she also provided the group with outfits.
Like before, Sakura was the center and prominent dressed individual. The pink filly wore a viridian long-sleeve crop top with blue diamonds that lined along the hem. On her back were a pair of black bat wings, and atop her head, a viridian beret with a blue diamond on the side. The other Cutie Mark Crusaders had a similar outfit, with Scootaloo replacing the wings with her own. Kero simply had a blue diamond ornament on a collar. Together, the group looked like a band of thieves.
"Tomoyo," spoke Sweetie Belle calmly, "is it ever gonna be one of our turns to where the nice outfit."
Though unable to speak, Tomoyo replied by tilting her head and smiling intently. Sweetie Belle did not need words to know what exactly her friend was conveying.
"That's what I thought," the unicorn said disappointedly.
Apple Bloom immediately asked, "So, what are we in for, exactly?"
Kero explained, "Well, I think we're facing against three cards, but luckily, they won't be dangerous. We're dealing with three sound-based cards; the Song, the Voice, and the Silent."
"The Song Card likes copying voices and songs it likes. I suspect the Voice Card took little Tomoyo's voice because it also liked it. Finally, the Silent Card, who detest sounds, is the one that teleported those noisy two away to get some peace."
"Hey!" shouted Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom indignantly.
"At least," Kero said, ignoring the glares from the fillies, "that's my working theory."
Sakura asked, "But they aren't dangerous, right?"
"Definitely. Even if it does turn out to only be one card..."
Now fully informed, the Cutie Mark Crusaders moved inside. It was easy as the door was left unlock, something the group thought to notify the mayor later. Regardless, the group entered and was immediately met with an unexpected sight. Two sizeable birds were flying around in the spacious lobby singing the same song previously. One bird was like a pink raven with long wavelike feathers, and the other appeared like a swallow with feathers patterned with blue music notes. Both were singing with Tomoyo's voice, but the raven bird appeared to be in competition with the other, who was behaving bashfully.
Then, the two birds disappeared. It surprised the group, who let out an audible gasp. Without warning, Cutie Mark Crusaders soon found themselves outside the town hall. Everyone was now shocked and confused.
"What just happened?" asked Sakura.
"Hey, look!" Apple Bloom swiftly pointed off to the side, revealing the two birds previously seen now flying back to the town hall. The pink raven continued inside while the swallow perched itself on the eave above.
Scootaloo immediately asked, "So, are they…"
"Yep, it's as I thought," said Kero confidently. "That was the Voice and Song cards, and after making so much noise, we all got teleported out by the Silent Card."
"So, what-" Just as Sweetie Belle was about to speak when she, and everyone, saw the raven reappear outside. It let out a giggle, in Tomoyo's voice, before going back inside.
Apple Bloom became intrigued. "Apparently, that one likes bothering the Silent Card."
Kero nodded. "Yeah, Voice tends to be mischievous and playful."
"So, what's the plan then?" asked Scootaloo. "How do we get their attention."
"Well," said Kero, "both Voice and Song would be interested in a new singing voice."
"But Tomoyo already is one of the best singers in class," stated Sakura.
Tomoyo blushed and expressed her embarrassment silently.
"Should we use a card?" asked Sweetie Belle. "Maybe Windy to capture them."
"It could work for Voice and Song, but Silent would be tricky since it can teleport away anything making a sound," said Kero.
"At least that's two cards down," said Scootaloo.
Sakura, however, disagreed with the idea. "I don't think we have to use force on Song. Maybe we can try talking to her."
The rest of the group was silent to the revelation. While Kero felt it unlikely, he did not think it was a bad idea to try. The others felt the same as well and thus, encouraged Sakura to make her attempt. Before she would go out, however, she asked for Tomoyo to come with her. It surprised the Earth pony filly, but she was happy to help her dear friend. After handing her transponder snail to Sweetie Belle to continue recording, the two best friends carefully approached the Song Card. They were able to get right underneath her – by the way, Voice had already reappeared five times by now – before attempting to talk with the swallow.
"Um, hello!" spoke Sakura nervously but chipper.
At first, the Song was hesitant and about to leave. Her mind changed, however, when she noticed Tomoyo and floated down. Once at eye level, the bird could see the young filly clearly and became overjoyed to see her. Tomoyo was surprised by the reaction and offered her foreleg as a perch. The Song accepted and, once so, became affectionate towards the Earth pony. She wanted to sing with her but soon found that her new friend could not do so.
"Voice took her, um, voice," explained Sakura.
Understanding, Song flew up as the Voice as the raven reappeared (for maybe the sixth time). She stopped her fellow avian from repeating her process and communicated with her. Voice did not seem interested in Song's concerns. Her attitude infuriated Song, and she began bothering the bird. It soon became a fight that brought the two down to the fillies' level.
Seeing an opportunity, Kero shouted to the Cardcaptor, "Now, Sakura!"
"Oh! Right." Quickly, Sakura pulled out her enlarged wand. She then chanted aloud as she raised her staff, "Return to the form you were meant to be!"
The filly then swung it down upon the two birds. "Clow Cards!"
As both cards were distracted, neither could resist the magic drawing them in. The two birds' forms dematerialized and began forming into cards. It was done in seconds as two whole cards floated to Sakura's hoof. Each card revealed their respective bird's image with their name below, "The Song" and "The Voice."
"Alright!" shouted Apple Bloom eagerly as she and the other joined Sakura. "You got two more Clow Cards!"
Scootaloo commented, "Though, they don't really seem all that useful."
"All magic has its uses. It's up to the user to figure them out," Kero stated sagely.
"Anyway," Kero continued, "we still have one more card to capture."
"The Silent Card," spoke Tomoyo. She then gasped with surprise, as did everyone else.
"You got your voice back!" Sakura cheered before hugging her best friend.
Kero explained, "Once you captured Voice, the magic was undone, so Tomoyo's voice was returned."
Now, with two cards down, the Cutie Mark Crusaders moved inside. Sneaking through an unsecured window, the fillies searched for where the Silent Card was hiding. As advised by Cerberus, the girls did so quietly so as not to be teleported away. Unfortunately, without knowing what to look for, it was a blind search until Kero could pinpoint it.
A section of the room was dedicated to an art display where Sakura was silently looking around. She stopped when she took notice of one of the paintings on a stand. It was a painting of a snowy owl with plumage acting like a large collar covering its beak. There was also a set of long feathers that draped over its face partially, and a blue, winged pendant was adorned on its forehead. Sakura did not know why, but the image seemed to resonate with her.
And while the pink filly stared, Scootaloo approached her. "Hey, Sakky, did you-!" The painting soon began glowing, and instantly, the young Pegasus was gone.
Sakura quickly realized what occurred. "Everyone! I found it-!" But she immediately went quiet, realizing the mistake she made all too late. She soon found herself outside, with Scootaloo.
"Well," said the orange Pegasus lightheartedly, "I think we found it."
It was only seconds later when the others teleported right next to them. They had, of course, made the same mistake Sakura and Scootaloo did. Everyone came to the same conclusion: the painted owl was the Silent Card. Unfortunately, knowing that information did not make capturing it easier. It was nearly impossible to approach without making a sound and then be sent away. Most of the group felt stumped by this conundrum.
"I have an idea," said Tomoyo. "What if Sakura could remotely capture the card."
Kero thought about it for a moment. "It could work if we can channel her magic through it."
"Like a Clow Card?" asked Sweetie Belle.
"That'll do it."
Sakura gasped with realization. She then pulled out one of her Clow Cards and exclaimed, "I can use the Shadow card!"
The plan was plausible, and so, the group put it to action. Finding the nearest window, the light of the bright quarter moon shined through to reach the painting. Sakura positioned herself right outside with her friends bordering around her to keep an eye out. In the clear, the young Cardcaptor prepared her incantation and card.
"Shadow Card. Pass through the glass and reflect my image. Release!"
Releasing the magic, the card became the black cat. It let out a short meow in greeting before performing the task required of it. It pranced over to Sakura's shadow and melded with it. The silhouette began to stretch over the windowsill and into the room. Further, it elongated until the young filly, and her staff's image was right next to the painting on display.
"Return to the form you were meant to be in..." Sakura announced before moving her staff down, "Silent Card!"
Copying its master, the Shadow lowered its own staff onto the painting. The painting visibly reacted with eyes darting to the shadow. Just as they planned, Sakura's magic affected the unsuspecting Clow Card, and it was caught. From the painting, it shrunk down to the size of a card that fell off the canvas. Through Shadow mimicking, Sakura caught the item, and it was carried over to her. Sakura picked up the object and happily showed it to her friends.
"Got it!" The others cheered for their friend and their own success.
Having been recording everything on her Transponder Snail, Tomoyo finished her capturing the event. She happily told her friends, "And I got it all recorded."
Everyone was disbelieving of their friend but were glad for her regardless. And for themselves, as well as the group successfully captured three Clow Cards in one night. In the fillies' minds now, the task of collecting all the Clow Cards seemed not so arduous after all.
On a warm night in Ponyville, there was an unusual event happening over at Saddle Lake. Despite the heat, the entire lake was frozen. Frost covered the beach and foliage around the body of water, making the area like a winter wonderland. This unnatural occurrence would be something wondrous to view, but no pony was around.
That is except for the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
On the frozen surface of the lake, a chase was taking place. Sakura, dressed in a red rabbit-eared coat, used her staff to speedily fly away from something. That something soon appeared from beneath the ice. It had the appearance of a giant Veiltail Goldfish with a blue gem on its forehead, and it was keeping with the flying pony as it swam behind her. Attempting to catch the filly, the giant fish leaped through the ice letting out a screech as it neared its target. The Cardcaptor quickly saw it, panicked, and sped up to dodge the fish. Missing entirely, the creature sailed back into the ice but continued swimming after its mark.
On the shore, the other Cutie Mark Crusaders were freezing. They all were even wearing their winter wear – being prepared – but were still feeling the bitter cold. Tomoyo was determined as ever to record her dear friend's exploit. Even as her own Transponder Snail shivered along with everyone else, its eyes remained steadily in place.
"S-S-S-S-S-S…." Scootaloo tried to speak, but her shivering hampered her.
However, Apple Bloom had enough concentration to say what her friend wanted to say, "S-Stupid F-Freeze c-card!"
"Yeah!" shouted Scootaloo, finally managing to speak.
Sweetie Belle spoke, "B-B-But S-S-Sakura is having a t-t-tough t-t-time g-g-getting t-t-this c-card. We n-need t-t-to d-d-do something!"
Between the three mares, they pulled out the cards Sakura had given them earlier. They only had three, and they were the Windy, the Wood, and the Jump. With the plants in the area nearly frozen, the Wood card would not be viable. None of them needed to jump high for any purpose. That left the Windy card as their best option.
"Oh!" said Scootaloo in realization. "I have an idea!"
After telling her friends her plan, they agreed to try it. They flagged Sakura to come over to them, and the young Cardcaptor trusted whatever her friends were going to do. She led the chase towards the group with her pursuer hot on her tail. The others got ready, with Scootaloo taking the lead with her Clow Card ready. As Sakura and Kero neared the shore, the Freeze fish attempted to catch the filly one more time. It jumped high into the air and opened its maw as it sailed down to gulp the pony. Both Sakura and Kero saw the frightening sight and panicked.
"Windy card!" shouted Scootaloo immediately. "Capture the Freeze card!"
Absorbing her magic, the card began to glow. Streams of magical wind flowed and traveled towards the fish in mid-air, avoiding the Cardcaptor and guardian. It surrounded the creature and formed a swirling whirlwind that kept it from falling. The animal struggled but could do nothing.
Sakura swiftly acted and flew over to the immobilized fish. She announced, "Clow Card! Return to the form you were meant to be in, Freeze card!"
Swinging her staff, Sakura made contact. Her magic enveloped the flailing fish, and, at the same time, the winds dissipated around it to return to its card. The aquatic animal froze in place before cracking then breaking like ice. As the pieces fell, a glowing card floated over to Sakura's hoof from the center. She watched as the light vanished away to show the image of the whole card. The Freeze card was captured.
"I got it!" declared Sakura happily.
The rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered, "Yeah!"
As Sakura joined her friends to celebrate, the surrounding area began to melt and thaw as the heat was no longer held back. The lake would take longer, but cracks were already beginning to form. Nowhere more so than in the center, curiously. As more cracks grew, a soft glowing figure of a creature could be seen. It appeared like a pony but with a fishtail hindquarter, and it was starting to awaken.
"Water Seven"
When the sun rose on the next, no pony could tell that Saddle Lake and its surrounding area had ever been a wintry wonderland. It was just another sunny and hot day. Many ponies were heading for the lakeside beach to cool off and have fun to beat such heat. Schoolteacher Cheerilee thought the same while also adding a little education to it. Her students would learn to swim and what to do in aquatic emergencies. That did not mean the kids could not enjoy themselves between practice.
At this moment, it was one of those times. Everyone in Cheerilee's class was splashing and swimming in the shallows. The rest of the lake was roped off. A lifeguard – a light blue Earth pony stallion named Lifesaver – was on duty keeping a watch. Every pony was having a good and safe time. There were some fillies on the beach, and among those were the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The group was focused on making an impressive sandcastle, no doubt for a potential cutie mark.
"You know," spoke Sakura, "while this is fun, I'm not sure if I really want a cutie mark for building sandcastles."
The others of her group agreed. "But that could mean you can live on a sunny beach for the rest of your life, carefree and relaxed," figured Scootaloo half-jokingly.
A quick thought and Sakura then let out a content sigh. "That would be nice…."
"What's really nice," said Apple Bloom, "is that the lake thawed out before anyone noticed anything."
Sweetie Belle nodded. "Imagine everyone's shock if they saw it frozen!"
Tomoyo chimed in, "They may have wanted it with how hot it is today."
"How to explain it, though…" the porcelain white unicorn said thoughtfully.
Scootaloo scoffed. "Ah, who cares," the little Pegasus then stood up with excitement.
"The water is nice and cool thanks to last night! Let's start swimmin'!"
Everyone agreed. The Cutie Mark Crusader's castle was left incomplete as the fillies raced into the cooling waters of Saddle Lake. Tomoyo and Sweetie Belle kept close to the shore while the others swam out a little farther in a race.
"Ah!" A scream drew everyone's attention. The Cutie Mark Crusaders saw frantic splashing at the other side of the area.
Without hesitation, Sakura propelled forward with all haste. She arrived as her classmate sank beneath the water. She dived immediately after the pony, a periwinkle unicorn filly with a grayish gold mane named Dinky Hooves. Sakura could see her trying to swim up. When the pink filly reached her, she attempted to pull her up, but something was pulling them down. Sakura caught sight of something around the pony's leg; it was a small whirlpool. The Cardcaptor reached out to the phenomena, and when she connected, the spinning water released the filly and surrounded Sakura. She was helpless against the force, and she blacked out from lack of air.
Luckily, the lifeguard arrived in time. The mysterious whirlpool disappeared immediately, which allowed the stallion to rescue the fillies. Once on shore, Lifesaver performed some quick CPR on Sakura and returned her to consciousness. The beach day was over, and all the school ponies returned to the beach. No one was in the mood anymore after what the drowning filly told everyone.
"I felt something grab me," spoke the filly frightenedly. "I couldn't see anything, but it felt like something was dragging me down."
The other young ponies were becoming anxious until Diamond Tiara spoke up obnoxiously. "What? A 'ghost' tripped up Ditzy Dinky. Like, yeah, right!"
Silver Spoon then added, "She probably just got her hoof stuck on some lakeweed or something."
Both fillies then together said nastily, "What a ditz!"
Distressed, Dinky shouted at the two, "No, I'm not!"
"Yeah, ha-ha…" said the goofy unicorn Snips though nervous. "There's no such thing as a ghost. It's just Dinky."
Snail was shaking anxiously despite agreeing, "Y-Yeah…."
Despite how condescending the fillies spoke, the rest of the class readily accepted the reasoning and laughed off like Snips and Snail. No one teased Dinky further, but she was not looking any happier either. Cheerilee attempted to calm her class. She had decided to have everyone return to the schoolhouse. While she did, the Cutie Mark Crusaders separated from the others to discuss what had happened.
"Are you okay?" asked Tomoyo worriedly.
"Yeah, I'm fine," said Sakura with a smile.
Scootaloo said, "But that was surprising that you nearly drowned. Sports is what your good at!"
Sakura gave her Pegasus friend an indignant look. "Maybe nearly drowning made me forget that I was going to make sweets for four of my friends…."
"But I'm glad you're okay!" the orange Pegasus said quickly and nervously.
Apple Bloom asked, "What did happen, though?"
"Well, I saw something around Dinky's ankle, and when I reached out, it started surrounding me instead…."
Sweetie Belle commented, "That sounds spooky."
"I don't think it was a ghost, though," stated Sakura, surprising the group. "It didn't feel scary. It felt…familiar."
"Like a Clow card?" asked Apple Bloom.
Tomoyo stated with alarm, "Another one at the lake. I wonder why it wasn't active last night with all the commotion."
"We better ask Kero…."
Once everyone returned to Ponyville Schoolhouse, the rest of their time was spent studying. When the school day finally ended, everyone left for their home. Most of the Cutie Mark Crusaders went to Golden Oaks Library, but Sakura had to return home. She was going to tell Kero about what happened, and she had chores to do that today. Her father and brother were out for today working, likely not to return much later in the day. It allowed Kero to move about the house freely, as Sakura explained to him what happened earlier. Everything she told him made the plushy concerned.
"That's definitely a Clow card and a very dangerous one at that," explained Kero grimly.
"It's the Watery card. Watery's one of the elemental cards like Windy, so she won't be able to help capture her. She'll be difficult to catch in general because any source of water near her she can escape and use. Watery also has a mean temper and specializes in attack magic. You're gonna have a tough time with this card…."
Before discussing anything further, both heard the door open, and Kero rushed up to Sakura's room. Sakura returned to her duty in cooking pancakes. It was her brother, Toya, coming off another hard day's work.
"I'm back," said Toya dully.
"Welcome home!" greeted Sakura cheerfully.
Toya trotted into the kitchen. The young stallion took note of Sakura's cooking, "Oh yeah, you're cooking today. I hope it's edible for ponies…."
"Hey!" shouted Sakura indignantly. "I'll have you know—"
A cheerful voice interrupted Sakura coming from Yukito, "My, that looks yummy."
"Yu-Yu-Yukito!" said Sakura embarrassedly.
"I hope you don't mind me joining you for dinner, Sakura…."
"Of course not!" Sakura said invitingly.
Toya told his friend, "I'll bring up our meal to my room. You go rest."
"Thanks." Yukito then told Sakura, "See you later."
Sakura nodded and hummed, too starstruck to speak. However, once the white unicorn left, she soon found her voice and attitude as she glared at her older brother. She began flail-punching her brother as she expressed her embarrassment, "You jerk!"
Of course, Sakura's attempt at retribution was only light and unaffected Toya. He eventually left, and Sakura continued her cooking. She began to think about what Kero explained to her. It certainly sounded like this capture would be her most difficult and dangerous one yet. How to do so was already an arduous task on its own. The little filly figured she would ask her friends later.
But first, Sakura had to deliver the pancakes to Toya and Yukito. She carried both plates using her inherent magical telekinesis of light yellow but was quickly losing her balance. Nearly at the door to her brother's room, the filly was about to fall over. The door flew open, and Yukito caught the plates using his hoof and leg. He used his body to stop Sakura's fall. Her magic dissipated as she became flustered with warm emotions being so close to her.
"That was a close one," said Yukito courteously.
Toya came to the door next and took one of the plates before commenting. "Funny how you were there just in the nick of time…."
"Well, I felt that she might need some help…."
Sakura blushed and squeaked out a reply of gratitude, "Thank you!"
After informing her brother, Sakura left with Kero joining her outside. They hurried through town to reach Golden Oaks Library, where her friends were currently home-sitting. A quick explanation of the situation was given before everyone worked on a plan.
"What about using the Freeze card?" asked Tomoyo. "It froze the lake with it in it…."
Kero shook his head. "Probably because Watery allowed it. Freeze is a card under her domain, so her power will be negated."
"Well," said Apple Bloom worriedly, "we gotta try! Or else more ponies might drown."
Everyone agreed, and so, under cover of night, they locked up the library and rushed over to Saddle Lake. Before leaving, Tomoyo had them all change into new outfits. They were all waterproof with a jester theme. It was a white leotard with a tassel neck collar, but Kero only had the latter. The fillies had an additional item, a jester's hat. Each costumed member had a different color, along with the first: Apple Bloom was green. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were red and purple, respectively. Finally, Sakura was blue.
By now, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were experts in navigating through Ponyville at night. They reached the lake, a beautiful scene with the waxing moon reflecting on its glistening surface. After checking the surroundings, the group moved onto the beach. Tomoyo remained behind as she recorded the sight with her Transponder Snail. Sakura gave the others with her a card. The Wood, the Jump, and the Shadow were issued to Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. The main Cardcaptor herself was ready with the Freeze card. Kero floated near her on guard. All of them were ready to take on the dangerous Watery card.
Except, the group was not prepared for someone else to be on the lake.
"Who's that?" asked Sweetie Belle.
The group looked over to the side. A small boat was little ways out on the lake. In it, thanks to the light from the moon, everyone could see a unicorn filly trying to do something.
"Is that…" Scootaloo peered closer before realizing with astonishment, "Dinky?!"
Apple Bloom saw the same and asked, "What is she doing there?"
None of the group had an answer as they watched their classmate do her task. Dinky appeared like she was fishing, yet she was keeping an eye on the waters. As the group watched, something began happening around Dinky's boat. The water was stirring and swirling around her, shaking the dingy. She lost her pole to little regard as she focused more on holding onto the seat, most likely, for dear life. On the beach, everyone gasped in shock.
"Watery is making her move!" Kero was fearful of what such a powerful card could do to the boat and filly inside.
Sakura took off immediately. "We gotta help Dinky!"
"I'll go!" Scootaloo held up her card. "Let's go! Jump!"
The card began to glow, and streams of golden magic flowed down like fireflies until it reached Scootaloo's hindlegs. Little wings formed from the aura placed on her heels. She wasted no time and jumped with excellent distance. The filly landed right in the dingy and next to Dinky. Her arrival did not go unnoticed.
"Scootaloo?!" Dinky was flustered, both by her situation and the Pegasus' arrival. "How…?!"
Quickly grabbing her, the orange filly told her, "No time!" She then jumped again, carrying the other pony.
Without the extra weight, the small boat was soon tossed out of the vortex. Scootaloo landed next to the others on the beach with Dinky still in her grasp. They, along with the others, looked back at the whirlpool as it rose into a spiral torrent. Something began swimming up the current, and once it reached the center, it dispersed the water to reveal itself. It was a feminine creature and a pony but with a scaly fishtail that made up the hindlegs. Not only there, but she had finlike ears and sapphire circlets that adorned her forehead. Her mane long was deep blue like the open ocean depths with an aqua blue coat like the shallows off the coast. As a fountain of water kept her in the air, the creature glared towards the fillies on the beach.
"That's the Watery card…." Sakura looked intimidated.
"Uh," spoke Sweetie Belle nervously, "she looks mad…."
"Scatter!" shouted Kero warningly.
Watery attacked immediately. She sent a wave of water hurdling towards the beach and the fillies. Quickly, the group reacted; Scootaloo used Jump's power to get herself and Dinky away. Sakura summoned Fly and flew with Tomoyo upon her staff. Kero was right by their side. Apple Bloom swiftly used the Wood card to lift herself and Sweetie Belle with a large tree. Everyone kept above it, with Scootaloo landing on a tree branch further inland. The mini tsunami crashed into and flooded the beach.
"That was close!" Scootaloo was relieved to have such a handy card in hoof.
As Scootaloo set Dinky down, the grayish unicorn looked between her rescuer and the others of her group. She was looking confused.
"How are you guys doing that? I've never seen any of you use magic before…."
Apple Bloom answered, "It's a bit complicated…."
"Watch out!" Kero warned the group as Watery attacked again.
Controlling more water, Watery commanded two streams and fired them upon the group. One was aimed for Sakura, Tomoyo, and Kero, but the pink unicorn and plushie moved away in time. The other went for Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. Before the Earth pony could react, the torrent hit both fillies. They held their breath, and the branches as liquid rushed over them. It was not hurting them, but the force was slowly pushing them off. The two ponies would not be able to hold on for long.
"Sakura!" Scootaloo noticed her friends' situation and was quick to inform her other friend.
Having brought Tomoyo to the same branch to land, Sakura quickly turned around to see the situation. She deactivated the Fly card and swiftly brought up another.
"Freeze card…!"
Kero tried to warn her, "Wait! Sakura!"
"Freeze Watery in her place!" The young Cardcaptor used her wand and activated the new card.
From the tiny piece of paper, the same magical Veiltail goldfish materialized. A cooling breeze was felt by the group as it dived into the water below. The liquid froze instantly and continued as the fish creature moved through the lake. It traveled over to where Watery stood and attempted to adhere to its master's command. But upon Watery noticing the icing, she ceased her attack and melted the ice around her back to the water.
"I told you," spoke Kero, "Freeze is under Watery's domain! She'll just turn it all back to water!"
Scootaloo commented, "But at least it stopped her!"
The Pegasus then jumped again and soared over to her friends in the other tree. She landed easily and grabbed them while they were recovering quickly as possible. Scootaloo leaped away as Watery fired another waterspout. They all made it to the tree the others were perched on safely. At the same time, the magic of Wood, Jump, and Freeze returned to being cards.
"What are we gonna do now?" Sweetie Belle was getting anxious.
Sakura was getting frustrated as she looked at the Freeze card. "If only we had a little more power…."
"Um," Dinky spoke up, "could I see your magic cards."
Before anything more could happen, Apple Bloom jumped in suddenly. "Watch it!" She immediately used the Wood card.
Another tree rose and blocked another blast of water created by Watery. It was a large tree, and Apple Bloom looked exhausted. The magical being kept the pressure upon the structure stubbornly.
Apple Bloom looked to Sakura tiredly but urgently. "Hurry!"
Sakura was hesitant at first, and Kero was advising against it. The others, however, convinced Sakura that they needed to at least try. Even Kero had to admit they were out of options. With everyone in agreement, begrudgingly for Kero, Sakura and the others showed Dinky the Clow Cards. It took only a second for the grayish unicorn to study each one. She then got an idea.
"What if we used this 'The Windy' card to power up the Freeze card." Everyone blinked with surprise at the idea. "I think if we empower it with a different elemental magic, it may just be strong enough to ice that thing!"
Kero thought about it. "It might work, at least, long enough for Sakura to capture Watery."
"Let's try it then!" Sakura felt her confidence return. She then offered Dinky the Freeze card for Dinky to use.
The grayish unicorn filly was surprised. "R-Really?"
"I trust you." A smile was on Sakura's face, brimming with faith.
Feeling the encouragement, Dinky accepted the card. The other felt the same determination and were ready to face Watery once again if need be. After Sakura quickly told Dinky what to do, both fillies looked forward with their cards in hoof.
"Windy…!"
"Freeze!"
And together, the two fillies spoke, "Work together to stop Watery!"
The cards began to glow. Again, the Freeze fish splashed out of its card while Windy appeared behind the group, summoned up by wind. She then headed her master's command and soared over the fillies harmlessly. Joining with the magical aquatic creature, the two started to flow around each other until becoming like a chilling gale heading towards their target. Watery did not notice until the combined force came from around the tree she was attacking. Shock overcame the hybrid, and she faltered for a moment. It gave the Cutie Mark Crusaders' gamble a chance. The swirling gale quickly warped around Watery like a tornado. Around the massive gust, the waters were freezing up, which gave the group hope. It was a moment later when moving air finally settled. A spectacular sight stood in the center. The being known as Watery was now a beautiful ice sculpture capturing the moment of her defeat at this moment.
When the cards' magic ended, Sakura was quick to retrieve the card. She used Fly to hurry over to the statue. As the waters receded back to their natural border, the young Cardcaptor landed on the saturated ground, returned Fly to a card, and rushed over to capture the card.
"Return to the form you were meant to be…." Sakura lifted her staff and lowered it upon the ice statue, "Clow Card!"
Her magic covered the frozen Watery. All the ice disappeared as Watery became a card. The card's physical being began to break down and reform into a smaller shape at the point of Sakura's sealing wand. Once completed, the item floated over to Sakura's hoof. As the young filly finally relaxed, her friends descended from their tree and rush over to her excitedly. Tomoyo continued filming with Dinky and Kero standing near her. All the Cutie Mark Crusader members gathered around Sakura, and they together celebrated.
Nighttime in Ponyville; a time when the hustle and bustle of the day finally quell and cools. It was a peaceful moment, and no pony ever felt endangered. There were, of course, many reasons for it, but in general, it was rare for anything bad to happen here. For yearlings like Snips and Snail, they could play around with little chance of their fun being stopped. Kicking a ball around was about as much excitement they wanted to have this night. Neither expected anything to happen to them, despite being near the dangerous Everfree Forest.
Giggling, Snips kicked the ball towards his friend. “Go long, Snail!”
“I got it!” The ball went overhead, but Snips only chuckled and chased after it.
As the goofy unicorn colt trotted over to the ball, nearly about to pick it up, he began to feel something eerie. Everything around him became misty and dark. He had no clue what was going on; it scared him.
“Um, Snips….”
“S-S-S-S-S-S….” The overweight pony could barely speak. His eye had already caught sight of something scary.
The thin amber unicorn did not want to see the same, but his curiosity drove him to spy. He peered towards the forest, and his regret became immediate as his face turned pale, and he stuttered to say anything. Snips could not muster the same as he exhibited the same signs now. Neither wanted to stay any longer.
“Ahhhh!” The two colts galloped away in a terrified panic. Neither had any coordination, tripping over the other as they rushed back home.
“More Than Meets the Eye”
On a bright new day, the Cutie Mark Crusaders are, once again, at Golden Oaks Library. Kero joined them as well but not just to get out of Sakura’s house. An important matter needed settling. After the events with Watery, the group asked Dinky to meet up with them at the library. Her curiosity, too, desired to know more about the group.
“Whoa…” Dinky looked at the fillies, amazed after hearing their story. “I’ve read about Clow Reed before in magic books, but this…!”
Dinky looked at the table where she could see the Book of Clow. Her eyes held much joy and awe for the item. Behind her, the Cutie Mark Crusaders appeared astounded by their classmate’s acknowledgment.
“What I read made him sound absolutely amazing!” Dinky became utterly excited. “He’s personally my favorite of the classical magicians.”
The filly did impress Kero, on the other hand. The little plushie-looking creature held nothing but respect and admiration for his creator and old master. To see someone else show similar feelings about Clow Reed, he could not help but feel endeared a little to the new pony.
“To think you guys found his book here, in Ponyville, of all places!”
Sweetie Belle became curious. “I didn’t know you were so into magic this much.”
“Well….” Dinky blushed slightly with embarrassment. “My mom thought I could use any book she could find to help me with my magic.”
Sakura smiled warmly at the periwinkle filly. “That’s so sweet of her.”
Kero’s impression of the filly grew further. “And her devotion to your studies allowed you to use a Clow card very well. I’d say it’s paid off.”
The praise made Dinky happy. “Thank you”
Scootaloo soon got everyone back on point. “Okay, that’s all good, but now you understand why you can’t tell anyone else about our card-capturing thing.”
Dinky nodded. “Yes! Of course! I won’t tell anyone!”
“Thanks!” Sweetie Belle could not be more ecstatic over the understanding.
“That’s a relief.” Apple Bloom felt content with the discussion.
But Tomoyo realized something immediately. “But since she knows our little secret, maybe we can make her a member of our group….”
The other group members looked at Tomoyo, then each other, and finally, to Dinky herself. No one thought about expanding membership beforehand though a key goal for their group. Dinky did not have her cutie mark either. The group immediately offered their classmate the choice.
“I mean….” Dinky appeared a little uneasy. “Would you really want a ditz like me…?”
Sakura grew a little mad though not at her classmate. She understood why the unicorn felt this way, and she acted upon helping her. “We don’t care what anyone calls you or thinks of you.”
Taking up Dinky’s hoof, who became surprised by Sakura’s tone, the pink unicorn continued her speech full of confidence. “You are amazing, and you’re our friend. We’ll support you no matter if you become a crusader or not.”
Apple Bloom smiled and nodded. “Darn tootin’!”
“Absolutely!” Sweetie Belle shared the same sentiment.
Scootaloo tried to play it casually. “It’s cool with me.”
Tomoyo chimed in as well. “Of course.”
Even Kero spoke, “It would be good to have another set of eyes to watch out for the Clow cards and give us some help….”
Dinky could not stop smiling after hearing all of that. She did not have an immediate answer for the group and wanted to think over the offer. Everyone understood, and their friend parted with them for the time being.
With their duties done at the Golden Oaks Library, the Cutie Mark Crusaders left to continue their quest to earn their cutie marks. Kero hid in Sakura’s saddlebag, not wanting to be discovered. A full schedule filled their day with activities, but the group noticed a commotion nearby before they could start. Many ponies with curious and worried expressions stood by listening to someone. Their frantic yelling could be heard over the crowd that drew the group to discover the source. Once through the ponies, the group found Snips and Snails at the center of everyone’s attention.
“It was like something out of a nightmare!” Snips sounded terrified.
Snail expressed the same sentiment. “I’d never seen something so horrifying in my life!”
Snips began pleading with the crowd. “We saw it at the edge of the woods! We were just minding our own business, honest!”
“I saw something too!” A Pegasus pony in the crowd spoke up immediately. “I couldn’t believe my eyes!”
An Earth pony said something as well. “When I walked by a few days, I nearly fainted from seeing it!”
Many more ponies confessed their sightings of the scary thing. Concern and fear started to spread through the crowd. A notion of bringing up the problem to the mayor came up, and nearly everyone left to do the task. However, the Cutie Mark Crusaders did not follow. They remained behind as they spoke further on the issue.
“I wonder what it is that’s got everyone spooked.” Apple Bloom felt puzzled by the descriptions given beforehand.
Scootaloo had a thought. “I bet it’s a dragon! The one Rainbow Dash beat-up to save Ponyville!”
“Didn’t they just ask him to leave politely?” Sweetie Belle knew her friend’s claim was a little suspicious.
“Maybe after his beat down.” The Pegasus did not seem too concerned about the facts.
However, Sakura felt a little scared. “That sounds pretty scary. I hope it’s not that…or a ghost!”
Tomoyo tried to reassure her friend. “I think if there was a dragon here, we’d know about them for sure.”
“And ghosts?” Fear laced Sakura’s voice.
“Another chance to get our ghost-busting cutie marks!” Optimism at the prospect of getting a cutie mark in such an endeavor made Scootaloo fearless.
Neither seeing nor sensing anyone around, Kero thought he comment as well though quietly. “Whatever it is, be careful. If the adult ponies are getting frightened by this thing, then it might be dangerous.”
Scootaloo seemed confident, nonetheless. “We got plenty of Clow Cards now! I bet we could easily take down a dragon! Or anything else for that matter.”
“I guess everything will work all right….” Sakura still felt unsure.
The others shared the same lack of confidence, but they all agreed to search for this thing scaring everyone. So, later that day, the Cutie Mark Crusaders arrived at the Everfree Forest’s edge, the location of all the commotion. The slowly setting sun painted the ordinarily blue sky a darkening orange and light yellow. It made the forest appear dark and scary, which began to frighten some of the group.
“So, we haven’t found anything yet. Can we go home now?” Sweetie Belle could not stand how creepy the forest grew by the second.
Unsurprisingly, Scootaloo felt the same. “Y-Yeah, maybe everyone’s just been seeing things.”
“I don’t know….” Sakura appeared unsure and unafraid. “I feel something here….”
Kero looked at Sakura, surprised. “You do too?”
Before anything more could be done, a strange mist began rolling from Everfree Forest. It spooked the group, and they immediately huddled together from fear. As the sun fell behind the buildings, the forest became more eerie and dark. And yet, through the fog and shade, there approached a figure within it. Closer it came to the fillies, and it tried stretching out an appendage towards them.
“AAAH!” All the fillies and Kero screamed except Tomoyo, who appeared more surprised than scared.
The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Kero took off for town, Tomoyo dragged along by Sakura in their panic. They fled all the way back to Golden Oaks Library, like a howling – actually, terrified – gust of wind. Running straight to this library winded most of the fillies before they could go inside. Tomoyo looked over them with concern as she patiently waited for all of them to recover.
“That…!” Nearly breathless, Scootaloo could barely speak, being so frightened. “That was too close!”
Sweetie Belle could barely think straight. “I can’t believe there was an actual dragon there!”
Sakura looked at her friend, puzzled. “Dragon? That ghost was too scary!”
“Ghost? I only saw that big blue dragon.” Now Apple Bloom was baffled.
The confusion continued through the group. Sweetie Belle stated, “No, the dragon was red.”
“Were you guys seeing things?” Kero, too, was perplexed. “That dragon was long and green.”
“It was a yellow!” Scootaloo declared with certainty. “And had huge muscles!”
Tomoyo began noticing a trend. “It sounds like everyone saw something different back there….”
Sakura asked, “Did you see something different?”
“I saw the penguin slide from the park. It was more surprising than scary.”
Kero picked up a trend among the accounts. “So, everyone here saw something different back there. And me and Sakura were sensing something back there….”
Everyone looked at the floating plushie with bated breath. Kero then announced, “I think this is the work of a Clow Card!”
The group decided that they needed to return to the forest. But first, everyone had to return home before worrying about their parents or guardians. After dinner and pretending to go to bed, each of the Cutie Mark Crusaders snuck out and met again at the town’s limit near the Everfree Forest. This time, due to the nature of the card, the group decided it would be best to let only Sakura confront it. The others supported from a distance. As always, Tomoyo came prepared with another piece of superb fashion for Sakura.
Using a rabbit theme, Tomoyo fashioned a cute and warm outfit. She wore pink bunny ears on her head with her small horn partially covered by a light blue sleeve. The color matched that of the one-piece suit that had a yellow puffball adorning the chest area. Around her front legs, she had puffy pink sleeves. Her mane tail became wrapped up and made into a cottontail to further display the idea. Like always, Kero had a matching accessory of a pink ball and blue ribbon. They were ready to make their attempt to make the capture.
“Here you guys go.” Sakura handed a card to each of her participating friends with confidence.
“Fly card!” Scootaloo became the first to use her card. As her magic poured into the card, the item used it, in turn, to enwrap her tiny wings and magically enlarge them to five times their size.
The normally flightless Pegasus became ecstatic. “Awesome!”
Before Scootaloo could take off, Tomoyo stopped her as she had something to give the group. She handed each one a compact-like device with the Cutie Mark Crusader’s symbol on it as well as a speaker. A red button could be seen on the side with an antenna on the other side. Each also had a necklace attached at the top. She told the group, “My mother made these at her company. I thought we could test them.”
“Cool!” Apple Bloom now became ecstatic. “Thanks, Tomoyo!”
Prepared, the Cutie Mark Crusaders went into action. As she did every time, Tomoyo recorded everything on her Transponder Snail. Kero floated near her to keep an eye on everything. With her enhanced wings, Scootaloo took off to gain a bird’s eye view. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle took distanced positions with their cards, the Wood and the Windy, ready to strike if needed. That left Sakura to courageously confront whatever waited in the forest.
“I’m not sure if I can do this….” Sakura, though, had second thoughts.
Tomoyo reassured her best friend. “Just try to imagine something that always makes you happy….”
Sakura took the advice to heart and softly let out a breath to think and calm her nerves. Once she had something in her mind, making her smile, the filly did not waste another moment. She trotted forward to the forest’s edge. All her friends readied themselves as they watched on carefully. Unfortunately, like before, a mist began rolling in and hindering their vision. None of them could see through the thick fog. All of them tried to communicate with Sakura in worry and concern.
“Are you alright!” asked Apple Bloom.
Sweetie Belle asked out as well, “Should I use the Windy card now?”
“I—” Sakura stopped as she caught sight of something.
In front of her, a distance away, Sakura could see a figure in the mist: the same as before. It surprised her at first, but she started to sense something different. She kept her guard up as she proceeded forward cautiously. A figure appeared as the filly got closer until it suddenly became discernable. The reveal shocked Sakura. She saw a beautiful mare with a flowing, wavy, and dark silver mane. Her snow-white coat made her almost ethereal in appearance, and her emerald eyes captivated the young filly. She recognized the pony instantly.
“M-Mom?!”
Everyone heard Sakura speak, and they were confused. They knew that Sakura’s mother had passed away years ago. All of them shared the same worry, and they rushed in to search for their friend. The mist dissipated as the group approached and found Sakura no longer nearby.
“Sakura!” Apple Bloom immediately tried calling out. There came no response.
Sweetie Belle used their walkie-talkies to get her to speak. “Sakura! Where are you?!”
Tomoyo expressed her worry. “You don’t think she went into Everfree Forest, do you?”
“I’ll search from above!” Scootaloo took to the sky quickly upon realizing that notion.
High above Everfree Forest, Scootaloo searched out for Sakura. The thick canopy, along with the night’s shroud, made it difficult to see anything below the tree line, even with the crescent moonlight shining down. She scanned with haste regardless, searching twice over within a small area. It began to look hopeless until she caught something from the corner of her eye. A gap in the trees revealed a dilapidated castle surrounded partially by a gorge. She swiftly flew to it and, upon getting closer, noticed a soft glow in the open space between the landmarks. A floating mare beckoned Sakura closer to the cliff that she did not see.
“Sakura!” The Pegasus dived down in a panicked hurry.
The Cardcaptor did not hear her friend, too enthralled by the image of her mother in front of her. She continued her walk to the mare, her eyes full of both joy and sadness. As she stretched out to reach for her mother, Sakura did not notice walking off the cliff.
“Mom—!” As her mother disappeared, Sakura soon saw her descent into the dark chasm.
Before she could let out a scream in fright, something grabbed hold of her body. The initial shock of falling paralyzed Sakura but her senses returned to her as her rescuer pulled her back onto solid ground. Scootaloo arrived just a second later when she saw Sakura being saved. She immediately recognized the pony, though, not actually one. Like an adult, the equine had black-and-white stripes across her body: a zebra. Her mane was styled in a mohawk, sharing the same color pattern. Gold ringlets adorn her neck and left front leg with golden earrings. But much like a pony, her flank bore something like a cutie mark resembling a sun.
Scootaloo proclaimed, “Zecora!”
After setting Sakura down, the mystic zebra looked to see her filly friend. “My, Scootaloo, I did not expect to see you! Could you tell me a thing or two?”
“I saw this filly, wandering alone. She nearly fell from this drop zone. And you, with wings so defying. Tell me, how is it you are now flying?”
Not sure how to answer, Scootaloo recommended that they return to town before she, or Sakura, could answer Zecora. Scootaloo managed to take Zecora and Sakura back to others, just barely above the tree line. Upon landing, the others met them, shocked to see the zebra. Kero hid when he noticed their new arrival. But before they could discuss Zecora, everyone wanted to know what happened with Sakura.
“I…saw my mother….” Sakura felt befuddled. “I just…I really wanted to talk to her again. I didn’t realize I had walked nearly off a cliff.”
Scootaloo did not understand. “What about the dragon?”
“All I saw was my mom….” The filly began feeling distressed. “Why did she bring me to that canyon.”
“Yeah! You nearly fell!” The Pegasus brought up a good point.
Sakura felt confused. “But my mom would never do that….”
“It’s okay, Sakura.” Tomoyo tried comforting her best friend, giving her a soft hug. “You’re lucky Ms. Zecora was around to catch you.”
“That was close….” Apple Bloom looked over to the zebra happily. “Thanks for your help, Zecora.”
The zebra smiled. “Of course, young Apple Bloom. I am more than happy to save your friend from doom.”
The pink filly smiled back. “Thank you so much….”
“I am glad you are safe now, child. But please tell me, what brought you out to the wild?” Zecora then looked keenly at Tomoyo’s bag.
“Though, if you cannot answer me, perhaps your little friend can answer my plea?”
None of the Cutie Mark Crusaders knew how to respond. As for Kero, he realized that hiding any further would be pointless. He flew out of Tomoyo’s saddlebag, much to the group’s shock. The little creature assured the group it would be fine, and he then presented himself before the zebra. A quick explanation gave the mare everything she needed to know.
“My, what a task to receive, but a noble one to achieve. Do not fret. I will keep secret this threat. But even so, I do feel your woe. May I offer my assistance, should you continue in your persistence?”
“Would you really help us,” said Sweetie Belle overjoyed.
“For you, I would come through. We are friends. I would not let you meet your ends. In any way I can, I will help you form a plan.”
Kero could not help but be skeptical. “I’m not even sure what we’re dealing with here. May be too dangerous to actually continue….”
Sakura then remembered an important detail. “No, we can’t. If everyone from earlier tells the mayor and she does something, a lot more ponies could be hurt.”
The thought of other ponies getting hurt made the filly mad but determined. “I won’t let what nearly happened to me happen to anyone else!”
Zecora beamed proudly. “Well said, young pony, with you, I agree. It’s time for action if we are to bring this story to a satisfaction.”
“But what do we do?” asked Sweetie Belle.
“For your question, I have a suggestion.” Zecora walked over to Sakura. She then gave the filly a piece of cloth.
“Blind yourself from all you are seeing if you want to defeat this being.”
Tomoyo asked, “Is that a good idea? She’ll need to use her wand and her cards.”
Kero explained, “Magic isn’t so much about gestures as is about will and imagination. If Sakura’s intentions are clear, she’ll be able to use the cards’ magic.”
The zebra nodded. “He is correct. It is something I know to great effect.”
“Of course,” Kero looked to his Cardcaptor sympathetically, “only if you want to, Sakura.”
“I do!” Sakura placed on the blind determinedly.
Apple Bloom shared in her friend’s tenacity. “Then we’ll help guide ya!”
Sakura smiled happily. “Thanks….”
Like before, the participating Cutie Mark Crusaders positioned themselves at a distance to direct their member. Through the use of their communication toys, each member relayed direction and description of her surroundings. Sakura trusted her friends to guide her. Tomoyo stood by continuing to film with Kero and Zecora by her. The latter keeping an eye out just in case. So far, the fillies have done well as Sakura approached the forest slowly. The mist soon appeared around the Cardcaptor but did not hinder the group’s visual. From the forest, once again, a figure approached Sakura appearing like her mother. Voicelessly, she tried beckoning the filly towards her, but she did not fall for this ploy again. The being became distressed by the lacking emotions, her appearance became distorted. A stain glass image flashed by quickly but not so much that Kero could not see it.
“I recognize that pattern!” Kero floated to Tomoyo to speak into the compact communicator. “Sakura! It’s a Clow card!”
As an open-way communication, the others heard the plushie too. Sweetie Belle directed her friend immediately. “It’s right in front of you!”
Without any hesitation, Sakura raised her staff. “Return to the form you were meant to be…Clow Card!”
Lowering her staff, the figure’s form completely vanished to reveal a stain-glass window appearance. It became enwrapped with magic and shrunk down to the size of a card. Sakura soon finished the ritual and took hold of the newly formed Clow card, titled “The Illusion.” Around her, the mist disappeared that allowed her friends to approach her.
Kero arrived first to look at the card. “Yep, that’s what I thought. The Illusion card. It has the power to look into one’s mind to depict their wants, hopes, dreams, and fears.”
He looked over to the other three Cutie Mark Crusaders as he further analyzed the situation. “Because those three and me were thinking about a dragon, we saw one, but we each had our own version. Sakura was more afraid of it being a ghost….”
Tomoyo soon realized the connection. “And because Sakura was so nervous, I told her to think of something that would ease her nerves.”
“I thought about my mom….” Sakura looked at the card amazedly. “Even if I don’t remember her much, she always gives me comfort when I’m scared or nervous.”
Apple Bloom smiled warmly. “That’s so sweet….”
Sakura smiled back, grateful for the compassion. “I’m just glad that my mother wasn’t really stuck in the forest and hurting people….”
Everyone soon returned home. The group thanked Zecora for her understanding and help, promising to visit for tea sometime soon. And so, the night passed, and the sun brought the new day to Ponyville. Its bright light awoke many but poor Sakura, tired from last night, arose much later. Sakura rushed through her morning routine while her family did their best to accommodate. Once finished with breakfast, Sakura hurried out to get to school.
But before leaving, Sakura stopped at her mother’s photo and smiled warmly. “I’m off to school, Mom!”
Watching on, Touya wanted to make a teasing comment. He stopped when he caught sight of something miraculous. Unseen by the Sakura, there floated an angelic being. Touya recognized her as his and Sakura’s mother, and he could not believe his eyes. The heavenly mother noticed the stare coming from her son, and she bashfully explained herself. Only Touya could hear her, though.
“I was a little worried, so I thought I’d drop by.” Nadeshiko then smiled warmly. “But it looks like she’s doing fine….”
Sakura, not realizing it, then spoke to her family before leaving. “See you all later, okay?!”
As Sakura left, Nadeshiko disappeared without a trace. Touya did not know what to make of the situation, but he kept quiet for Sakura’s sake.
‘I’m done scaring Sakura with ghost stories….’ Touya then drank his coffee and ate his breakfast in peace.
The cheer from Sakura's friends invigorated her to push through her exhaustion and up her galloping. It helped her rush past one of her classmates to cross the finish line. A roar of cheers and applause erupted as all the younglings did the same. Not just from their peers but from adults present as well standing with them.
"Way to go, Sakura!" Sweetie Belle walked up next to her friend, carrying a flag. "You got first place!"
Sakura smiled happily. "It was thanks to all the cheering…."
The pink filly then felt a familiar presence and turned around immediately as she became excited. "Yukito!"
Here to meet Sakura, Yukito stood by stamping his hoof in praise. Touya was with him too, not that Sakura minded. He brought with him two bags carrying bento boxes for lunch. The young filly felt a wave of joy to see them both, even if she only focused on the silvery Earth pony. Her big brother did not seem to mind. Sakura rushed over to them to speak with them.
It's Parents' Day at Ms. Cheerilee's school! After showing how she teaches us, we have a field day outside where we get to show our physical skills. It's my favorite part!
As flower petals listlessly fell all around the schoolhouse, a crowd of ponies had gathered as they watched the yearlings participate in various physical activities. Many, of course, are the parents of some of these young equines. Everyone cheered on both their offspring and the other fillies and colts, many friends with their own kid. It was a one-of-a-kind day for Ms. Cheerilee's students, and they could not be more excited about it.
"Hey there, Sweetie!" Sweetie Belle looked over to see her parents, Hondo Flank and Cookie Crumble, approaching.
"Mom! Dad!" The little unicorn rushed over to see and greet her parents.
While the two families conversed, two more entered their vicinity as they tagged along with their youngest member. Apple Bloom came with her big – in every sense – brother Big Mac and her grandmother, Granny Smith. The other family belonged to Scootaloo but consisted only of her two aunts, Holiday (Earth pony) and Lofty (Pegasus). As the groupings noticed each other, they gathered and overlapped their picnic blankets to share in lunch. Most of the adults sat near each other with the youngest fillies across from them. The three stallions sat separately from the others.
Lofty coyly eyed a particular dish from the Apple family meal. "That wouldn't happen to be your famous Apple Family pie, would it, Granny?"
"Darn tootin' it is." The old mare then got a wily look. "Trade ya for yer tater cakes…."
"Deal!" Both mares then handed the other their requested item.
Holiday rolled her eyes at her partner. "Oh, you and your sweet tooth…."
Content with her acquisition Granny Smith turned her gaze to the stallions nearby. “Oh, Touya-boy, Yukito-kid. I hope you two will be available to help with the apple-bucking season coming soon. We're gonna need some extra hooves with Applejack off adventurin' and what-not…."
Yukito smiled and nodded. "We'll make time, right?" He looked over at Touya, just to be sure.
"Eeyup." Touya knowingly borrowed Big Mac's phrase, making the older stallion chuckle.
"Glad to hear it." Big Mac raised his mug of cider in celebration to which, Touya returned with the same gesture.
Apple Bloom became excited hearing the news. "That's great! Gonna be a good hull this year!"
Sakura felt enthused as well. "I can't wait to get some of your family's apple cider! Everyone in my family loves it!"
"Speaking of," Sweetie Belle began looking around curiously, "Is your dad going to be joining us?"
The pink filly nodded. "He will. He promised to make it by lunch."
"What about Tomoyo?" asked Scootaloo. "She didn't arrive with you guys?"
"She's meeting with her mother." Sakura started beaming with delight. "I've never met her mom before."
Before anyone else could speak, a voice echoed over the area. "Sakura…!"
"Dad!" Sakura recognized it instantly and became overjoyed.
Trotting around the other families, an adult stallion unicorn showed up looking for Sakura (and his other kid, technically). Fujitaka had not found them yet, and he appeared worried. It did not last long as he soon saw his daughter waving to him, joined by all of her group. Now relieved and smiling, the light-purple pony walked over to the group. Sakura quickly got up and met her father just before reaching their blankets, enwrapping him in a loving hug.
"You made it!" Sakura felt incredibly happy.
Fujitaka smiled as well, warmed by his daughter's greeting. "The meeting ran a little long, but I wouldn't want to miss this."
"' Bout time you got here!" Granny Smith let out a chuckle. "We done nearly ate all the food."
Granny then looked over at Yukito as she expressed her surprise. "For a skinny feller, you sure pack away a lot of food."
Big Mac held the same regard for his friend. "Eeyup."
Yukito sheepishly laughed. "Sorry…."
Holiday, smirking, held up a plate of sandwiches. "She'll be apples. We got plenty more! Here, have some cut lunch, honey."
"We brought the potato salad!" Cookie Crumble added gleefully.
"Thank you. I don't mind if I do" Fujitaka accepted the food with gratitude and moved to join the group.
As Sakura sat down with her friends, all the fillies took notice of the flower petals falling between them. Sweetie Belle made an observation. "There sure have been a lot of petals today. I thought all the trees had already blossomed for the year…."
Sakura agreed but also had a pleasant notion. "But it does make everything feel a little bit more festive, doesn't it?"
On that, the other Cutie Mark Crusaders agreed. Before they could all continue their lunch, they all suddenly spied a large group of ponies trotting around the other families. An all-female and Earth pony group standing around the only two not dressed similarly. Most of them wore black suits and sunglasses. The older of the pair had her brown mane styled to be short with the right side slightly longer. She trotted alongside Tomoyo, who looked content and cheerful.
"There's Tomoyo!" Scootaloo, though, became curious about the mare next to her. "But who is that…?"
Sweetie Belle had a guess. "Could that be…?"
Tomoyo soon spotted the group, and her smile brightened. She rushed over to greet them immediately. "Hello everyone, sorry we're late."
Apple Bloom asked, "Tomoyo, is that…?"
The slender mare caught up with her daughter and greeted the fillies pleasantly. "Hello, I'm Tomoyo's mother, Sonomi Daidouji."
All the fillies greeted her. "Hello!"
"Now, let me see…." Sonomi looked over each of the fillies before pointing to them one by one. "You must be Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Sakura."
"Wow! On the dot!" said Scootaloo.
Sonomi smiled. "Tomoyo has told me about all of you. Thank you for looking after my daughter."
"No problem." Apple Bloom then added sheepishly, "Though, it's more like she takes care of us sometimes…."
"It's nice to finally get to meet you." Sakura smiled excitedly at the mare.
"And you as well. My daughter tells me a lot, especially about you, and I can see why. You're very cute."
The compliment made Sakura embarrassed. "Oh, shucks.
"You actually remind me of a girl I used to know…." The mare began smiling fondly towards the filly, nostalgically so. It confused Sakura, but she was soon drawn away by a distraction.
None other than Granny Smith as she welcomed the mare with folksy hospitality. "Well, welcome, youngin.' Why not pull up a seat by Sakky's pa and join us for what's left of lunch."
"That sounds lovely…." As she looked around, Sonomi seemed confused. "Who is Sakura's father?"
Fujitaka turned around, revealing his face to the newcomer. "That's me…."
A moment of pause as Fujitaka's and Sonomi's eyes connected. Each pair widened as they recognized the other, like seeing an old classmate. “Sonomi/Fujitaka-senpai?!”
All the group watched on in surprise at the familiarity these two parents held for each other. Neither Sakura nor Tomoyo knew of such a connection to their friends' astonishment. Quickly, both adults excused themselves to have a private conversation. They did not travel far, but they were just out of hearing distance. While the adults paid little attention to it, the Cutie Mark Crusaders watched on with intense interest. From what they can see, the two ponies' talk looked polite and mature. Then, Sonomi became more passionate and animated with childish rage and stubbornness. Fujitaka accepted all of it calmly.
An announcement soon came from Cheerilee. "Our next event is the family member 100-meter race! All participants, please report to the front of the school building!"
"Oh!" Sweetie Belle became excited upon hearing the call. "You got to get ready, Dad!"
Scootaloo looked to her aunts with a thrilling smirk. "Let's go, Aunt Lofty! You gotta race to win!"
"You got it, kiddo!" The Pegasus stood up ready.
Apple Bloom, too, got up. "You ready, Big Mac?"
"Eeyup!" The big Earth pony stood up readily.
Before Sakura could say something, she saw her father and Sonomi heading back to them, the latter keeping her distance. Fujitaka rushed up to his daughter quickly, looking confident. "Are you ready, Sakura?"
Sakura held a minor concern, however. "Do you sure you want to run today?"
Surprisingly, Touya, too, felt the same. "Maybe I should do it instead."
Fujitaka smiled warmly at his children. "No, I want to. Besides, Sonomi made me promise to run."
The pink filly's mood changed to excitement. "Let's go then, Dad!" She and Fujitaka then went to join the others.
Before they could head to the spectators' area, Granny Smith stopped Touya as she expressed her own concern. "So, are you gonna explain what all that was about earlier, Touya-boy?"
“Sonomi Daidouji used to be Sonomi Amamiya….”
Granny Smith recognized the surname and became sad. "That's your mother's family name…."
"They are cousins." Touya continued with the explanation.
"Mom was part of a rich family, and Sonomi and her were best friends since they were little. She met Dad when they visited Canterlot University, and they fell in love. None of her family approved with Sonomi being the most outspoken, so they eloped…."
The elder pony shook her head disappointedly. "Shame…." She understood well the pigheadedness that families can maintain.
"That is pretty sad." Yukito looked at Touya and began to smile softly as a thought came to mind. "But from the pictures I've seen, your mother always looked happy…."
Yukito's pleasant expression and compliment made Touya silent. He remained stoic and tried to immediately draw attention away. A small flurry of flower petals listlessly falling around them made for a perfect distraction.
"There sure are a lot of flower petals around…."
Yukito played along knowingly. "You're right…."
"Come on, boys." Holiday enwrapped the stallions in a friendly hug. "Let's go cheer them on!"
The group joined the crowd around the field each student's family member took their place. Each yearling stood along the sidelines to cheer them on. Of the students, Cheerilee handed Sakura and Tomoyo a task. They would hold the tape that would mark the finish line. The track would be one long loop around the schoolhouse. As Cheerilee made sure all was prepared, the adults waited to take their gallop.
Tomoyo soon took notice of who stood at the front of the group. "Mother?!"
Sakura saw as well. "I didn't know your mom was running?"
"N…Neither did I." The young prim filly, for once, expressed her own surprise. "I thought she didn't want to…."
Though curious about the rivalry going on, Sweetie Belle took notice of the increased flurry of flower petals. "Whoa, there are a lot of petals falling now…."
"Yeah. What's up with that." Apple Bloom felt a little worried as it seemed to be nearly raining petals.
At the starting line, Sonomi was not alone; Fujitaka stood next to her. The mare glared daggers at the stallion, trying to psyche her opponent out. None of their other colleagues from their group felt that they could intrude. Fortunately, Cheerilee soon came onto the field, and everyone prepared for the race. The yearlings readied and watched with eager anticipation. The cherry-colored mare stepped aside to clear and readied to send the racers off. And with a wave of the flag, the competition began.
"Go!"
On Cheerilee's call, every participant took off. Sonomi came out ahead immediately, showing form like an athletic runner. The rest of the competition could barely keep up with her; the mare smirked confidently and felt assured of her victory. A pony soon passed her, however. To her shock, Fujitaka had overtaken her lead. Her confidence quickly changed to childish rage, and she pushed herself to catch up.
At the same time, the falling flower petals seem to increase in number. No longer a rainstorm but now a full-blown blizzard of colorful petals. They became so numerous that they began piling up like snow and quickly.
"What's going on?!" Scootaloo covered her head, trying to keep the petals away from her eyes.
Sakura already had a thought. 'This has to be a Clow card!'
Now piling higher, many of the yearlings sought cover by tall adults. It would be only minutes before the flower petals would engulf them in a sea of colors. Many of the racers had to stop as they could not get past the accumulating piles. However, that did not stop Sonomi and Fujitaka. The two adult ponies pushed through as Sonomi tried surpassing Fujitaka.
A sight Sakura could not believe. "I can't believe they're still racing…."
"My mother is very competitive." Tomoyo did not seem too surprised by the display.
There came a shout from Apple Bloom, "Sakura!" Both fillies looked over to see Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo waving at them. They could not push through the piles of flower petals between them.
Before long, Big Mac came by, having abandoned the race. He quickly picked up the fillies and placing them on his back. Apple Bloom expressed the group's gratitude, "Thanks, Big Mac."
Big Mac smiled and nodded. "No problem."
The sturdy stallion began making his way towards Sakura and Tomoyo. Unfortunately, the flurry of flower petals blinded Big Mac from continuing his rescue. Everyone began suffering the same problem, as well as their movements being hindered. Sakura knew she had to do something, and she pulled out her key.
Tomoyo took notice of the action. "Are you going to use magic here?"
"No one can see…." A quick look around proved her observation correct, and Sakura released her key.
"Key that hides the forces of darkness, show me your true form! Release!" Sakura's magic expanded her key into a long wand. And just as quickly, she used one of the Clow Cards.
"Fly!" The wings on the staff grew out immediately. Sakura and Tomoyo hopped onto the staff and began to fly.
Apple Bloom was about to again to their friends when she noticed the white tape fall from the sky. She then heard Sakura's voice, "Hold on to this, would ya?"
The three Cutie Mark Crusaders looked up. All of them saw Sakura and Tomoyo flying above them. Neither Apple Bloom nor Sweetie Belle said anything, not wanting to reveal their friend's ability. They also trusted that Sakura knew what she was doing.
"Hey, wait!" Scootaloo, on the other hand, felt indignant seeing them. "I thought Fly was my card!"
Both Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle quickly hushed their friend, "Shhh!"
Sakura and Tomoyo flew higher until they were above the storm of flower petals. They could see everything clearly now. More than just the track, the entire area was a sea of colors rising ever higher. The Cardcaptor had to find the source of the flower petals and quickly.
"Should we check in with Kero?" Tomoyo held up her communication compact, smiling.
A quick press and a moment later, Kero spoke through the device. Sakura gave a short explanation, and the guardian of the Clow cards agreed with her notion. He thought it best to give some advice, "First things first! Where are the flowers coming from?"
"On the roof!" There, a softly glowing orb could be seen, producing the multitude of flower petals falling. It took only Sakura a second to find the source.
Below, the race was still going for Sonomi and Fujitaka. The flower petals had risen to their barrel but neither let it stop them. Pushing through the petals, the two neck-and-neck racers could see the finish line. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle held the lineup as best they could as they stretched their bodies to remain above the petals. Scootaloo stayed with Big Mac as they watched on with worry. Before long, the two were in trouble, but help soon came to them.
Yukito took one end from Sweetie Belle. "I've got this. You should evacuate with your friend."
Before Apple Bloom could say something, Touya took the other end of the tape from her. "We'll take over…."
With their height, both young stallions could withstand the piling of petals. They kept holding the finish line as Fujitaka and Sonomi pushed through the flower petals. Of the two, Sonomi appeared desperate to beat the stallion.
"No! I can't lose! Not this time!"
Fujitaka said nothing, remaining calm despite the adversity. He, too, did not want to lose this race.
Meanwhile, Sakura and Tomoyo flew up to the roof of the Ponyville Schoolhouse. They landed and dismounted to approach the light orb. It changed its shape as it revealed a figure making the flower petals appear. A mare with a pink mane in corkscrew pigtails danced delightfully and whimsically. She had a horn with a flower-like symbol around it. Her hooves appeared to be flowers and produced the same items covering the area. Both fillies watch on astounded.
Tomoyo looked to Sakura curiously. "Is that the card?"
"I think so…." Sakura looked at the pony; she saw her and spun over to her.
Unsure what to do, Sakura watched cautiously as the mare approached her. She came face to face with the filly, unafraid and curious. A moment later, the pink pony smiled and took the student by her front legs. The mare began to dance with Sakura cheerfully. It confused Sakura, but it seemed that the mare controlling the flower petals meant no actual harm.
"What's happening?" Kero asked through the communication compact.
Tomoyo answered with surprise, "They're…dancing."
A chuckle escaped from Kero. "That sounds right. There should be no worries then. This card just likes to have fun."
Dizzy from the dancing, Sakura hollered out in distress. "What should I do?!"
"Why don't you capture her?" An obvious answer, but Tomoyo felt more than happy to help her best friend.
A little embarrassed, Sakura used her magical telekinesis to bring her wand over. "Return to the form you were meant to be…Clow Card!"
The being soon lost her physical shape as it reshaped itself. No longer a pony, the mare became a card that floated over to Sakura. The former equine's form appeared on the front with a title below her. Tomoyo approached Sakura as she read aloud the name.
"The…Flower?"
Kero heard her. "Yup! That's the one! The Flower Card. She loves stuff like celebrations and events, but she does get a little overexcited. I bet she just wanted to liven things up a bit."
"Liven things up…?" Sakura could not help but believe otherwise.
Still, as far as Clow cards went, Sakura felt her new capture suspiciously underwhelming. "So what can this card do? Like, in battle?"
"Well, she can materialize all different kinds of flowers!" Sakura's disbelief grew further before releasing it as one sigh.
"Oh no!" Tomoyo spoke with a gasp.
"What's wrong?!" Sakura's worries came back.
But it was all for naught as Tomoyo explained, "I forgot to record your deeds!" Her response made the pink filly fall from shock, making her end the call with Kero.
Back below, the flurry of flower petals had ceased falling like snowflakes. Everyone began to recover, but the race between Fujitaka and Sonomi neared its conclusive result. Wading through the petals to cross the finish line, Fujitaka became the winner of this personal competition. He moved to greet his daughter but became surprised to see his son and his friend holding the line. The moment of victory did not last long as all the stallions felt a heated gaze directed at them, particularly Fujitaka. Sonomi could not be angrier at the result.
With everything now settled, it came time to clean up all the flower petals. Cheerilee spearheaded everyone to help out. Even the parents and guardians took part. Of course, Sakura and Tomoyo returned before anyone outside the Cutie Mark Crusaders' group could be aware of their disappearance. They joined in sweeping away the piles of flower petals along with their friends and family.
Except, two of them had disappeared; but, Touya had an answer. "Dad and Tomoyo's mom went behind the school building…."
"I'll go check on them!" Sakura immediately left with Tomoyo in tow.
The other three Cutie Mark Crusaders quickly went after them. "We're going too!" said Apple Bloom to the others.
Neither Touya nor Big Mac could say anything to stop the group. They hoped the group of rambunctious children would not cause any trouble for the adults. It took no time for the fillies to find the missing parents having another conversation. Remaining hidden, the Cutie Mark Crusaders watched and listened in on the conversation. Sonomi still seemed angry, while Fujitaka accepted it all with a calm smile. It still looked like they were in a tiff.
Worried, Sakura wanted to do something, but Tomoyo had an idea. A quick whisper, and Sakura brought out her wand and new card. Softly, the Cardcaptor gave a command. "Give them both Nadeshiko blossoms…."
"Flower!" The being appeared above the group, surprising the other three Cutie Mark Crusaders. All it took was a quick click of her flower hooves, and above the adults, two flowers floated down between them.
Sonomi's anger dissipated as she caught the flower. She stared fondly at the blossom, as did Fujitaka. What had been childish rage of jealousy turned to reminiscence and sadness for Sonomi. Fujitaka shared the same feelings; they both loved Nadeshiko in their own right. In that, they both could share in both pain and memory of the long-past mare. All their tension disappeared, but the rivalry remained only now a bit friendlier. Sakura and her friends left, feeling content with this resolution.
"That was a good idea, Tomoyo," said Sweetie Belle.
Scootaloo agreed. "And that new card really made it work…even though it is kinda lame…."
Apple Bloom immediately had a thought. "I guess the girl Tomoyo's ma was talking about was Sakura's ma."
"Yeah, I guess so." Sakura looked over at Tomoyo. "It sure looks like your mom loved my mom a lot. Just like my dad."
Tomoyo warmly smiled back. "Well, you know, there are all kinds of love. Like how I love you, Sakura."
"Me too, Tomoyo!" The pink filly then pulled in all the fillies in their group for a group hug. "I love all you guys too!"
"Aw, shucks." Apple Bloom's cheeks flushed with red.
Sweetie Belle appeared less embarrassed. "Thanks, Sakura."
"Geez…." Scootaloo tried her best to remain aloof, but her reddened face and hidden smile betrayed her attitude.
The little Pegasus filly soon separated after a moment. "Enough of the mushy stuff already. We're wasting time to find our cutie marks!"
As everyone separated, Tomoyo decided to be coy with her friend. "So, you want a cutie mark for 'petal sweeping?'"
Scootaloo quickly expressed her disdain which made all her friends laugh. Regardless, the group would continue to help with the cleanup. Despite the unusual circumstance, Parents' Day had been a complete success and a good time had by all.
Unbeknownst to everyone, someone was watching from afar. A light-brown colt stood in a tree gazing over the area with purpose. The pony raised an eight-sided board shaped like a star with four symbols like a compass with different colors and held it out. A light appeared in its center and moved forward. Through the colt's messy dark brown mane, he gazed in the direction to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders.
"I found them…." The colt's voice filled with determination, "The Clow cards are near."
